Sherburne County Arrest Records

Are Arrest Records Public in Sherburne County

Arrest records in Sherburne County are considered public information under Minnesota law. Pursuant to the Minnesota Government Data Practices Act (Minnesota Statutes Chapter 13), most arrest data is classified as public government data. This classification allows members of the public to access and review arrest records maintained by law enforcement agencies within Sherburne County.

The Minnesota Government Data Practices Act § 13.82 specifically addresses law enforcement data, stating that "data created or collected by law enforcement agencies which document any actions taken by them to cite, arrest, incarcerate or otherwise substantially deprive an adult individual of liberty shall be public at all times in the originating agency." This statutory provision ensures transparency in the criminal justice system while balancing privacy concerns.

It is important for requesters to understand the distinction between arrest records and conviction records:

• Arrest records document that an individual was taken into custody by law enforcement based on probable cause that they committed a crime
• Conviction records indicate that an individual was found guilty of a criminal offense through a court proceeding
• An arrest does not necessarily lead to a conviction, and individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty

The Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension (BCA) maintains the state's criminal history database, which includes arrest data from Sherburne County. While certain arrest information may be restricted in specific circumstances (such as juvenile records or expunged cases), the majority of adult arrest records remain accessible to the public.

What's in Sherburne County Arrest Records

Sherburne 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 (first, middle, last)
• 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 or ordinance violations
• Charge severity (felony, gross misdemeanor, misdemeanor)
• Charge descriptions
• Case numbers

Warrant Information (if applicable):

• Warrant number
• Issuing court
• Date issued
• Warrant type

Booking Information:

• Booking date and time
• Booking facility
• Booking officer
• Property inventory
• Medical screening information

Bond/Bail Information:

• Bail amount set
• Bond type
• Bond conditions
• Release eligibility

Court Information:

• Court of jurisdiction
• Scheduled court appearances
• Judge assigned to case
• Case disposition (if available)

Custody Status:

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

Additional Information May Include:

• Prior arrest history
• Known aliases
• Immigration status
• Probation/parole status
• Risk assessment data
• Behavioral notes during custody

The specific content of arrest records may vary depending on the arresting agency and the circumstances of the arrest. Records maintained by the Sherburne County Sheriff's Office typically contain more detailed information than those maintained by smaller municipal police departments within the county.

How To Look Up Arrest Records in Sherburne County in 2026

Members of the public seeking arrest records in Sherburne County may utilize several methods to obtain this information. The county maintains multiple access points for record retrieval, depending on the specific needs of the requester.

To request arrest records in person:

1. Visit the Sherburne County Sheriff's Office Records Division during regular business hours.
2. Complete a public data request form, providing specific information about the record being sought.
3. Present valid government-issued photo identification.
4. Pay any applicable fees for record retrieval and copying.
5. Wait for records staff to process the request (simple requests may be fulfilled while you wait).

Sherburne County Sheriff's Office
13880 Business Center Drive NW
Elk River, MN 55330
(763) 765-3500
Sherburne County Sheriff's Office

To request arrest records by mail:

1. Prepare a written request clearly identifying the specific record(s) being sought.
2. Include your full name, contact information, and a copy of valid government-issued photo identification.
3. Enclose a self-addressed stamped envelope for return delivery.
4. Include payment for applicable fees (call ahead to confirm the amount).
5. Mail the complete package to the Sherburne County Sheriff's Office Records Division.

For electronic requests:

1. Visit the Sherburne County website.
2. Navigate to the Sheriff's Office section.
3. Locate the data request form or records request portal.
4. Complete all required fields, providing specific information about the record(s) sought.
5. Submit payment for any applicable fees using the online payment system.
6. Await electronic delivery of records or instructions for pickup.

Pursuant to Minnesota Statutes § 13.03, government agencies must respond to data requests in a timely manner. The Sherburne County Sheriff's Office typically processes routine requests within 5-10 business days, though complex requests may require additional time.

How To Find Sherburne County Arrest Records Online

Sherburne County provides several digital resources for accessing arrest records online. These electronic systems offer convenient alternatives to in-person requests, allowing members of the public to search for arrest information remotely.

The primary online resources for Sherburne County arrest records include:

1. Sherburne County Jail Roster - The Sheriff's Office maintains a current inmate lookup system showing individuals currently in custody. This resource includes:

   • Inmate name and booking photo
   • Booking date
   • Charges
   • Bond information
   • Next court date

2. Minnesota Court Records Online (MCRO) - This statewide system provides access to court cases related to arrests in Sherburne County. Users can search by:

   • Defendant name
   • Case number
   • Citation number
   • Date range

3. Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension (BCA) Public Criminal History Search - For a fee, users can request official criminal history information that includes arrest data from Sherburne County through the BCA's public portal.

4. Sherburne County Sheriff's Office Records Request Portal - Some arrest records may be available through the county's online records request system, though this typically requires submission of a formal request rather than providing immediate access.

When searching online systems, users should be prepared to provide:

• Full name of the subject (first, middle, last)
• Date of birth (if known)
• Approximate date of arrest (if known)
• Case number (if known)

Online access to certain arrest record details may be limited due to privacy protections under Minnesota Statutes § 13.82, which restricts disclosure of specific data elements in certain circumstances. For comprehensive arrest records, a formal request to the Sherburne County Sheriff's Office may still be necessary.

How To Search Sherburne County Arrest Records for Free?

Members of the public have several options for accessing Sherburne County arrest records without incurring fees. Minnesota law provides for public inspection of government data at no cost, though charges may apply for copies or certified records.

Free methods to access Sherburne County arrest records include:

1. In-Person Inspection - Pursuant to Minnesota Statutes § 13.03, subdivision 3, individuals may inspect public government data, including most arrest records, at no cost during normal business hours. Visit:

Sherburne County Government Center
13880 Business Center Drive NW
Elk River, MN 55330
(763) 765-3000
Sherburne County Government

2. Sherburne County Jail Roster - The Sheriff's Office maintains a free online inmate lookup system showing current inmates and their charges.

3. Minnesota Court Records Online (MCRO) - Basic case information related to arrests is available at no cost through the Minnesota Judicial Branch website, though document access may require fees.

4. Public Access Terminals - Computer terminals at the Sherburne County Government Center and public libraries provide free access to certain public records databases.

5. Local Newspaper Archives - The Elk River Star News and other local publications often report on significant arrests and may be accessed for free through library resources.

When utilizing free resources, requesters should note:

• Some systems may have limited search capabilities
• Not all arrest record details may be available through free resources
• Older records may not be accessible through online systems
• Staff assistance for extensive searches may incur fees

For the most comprehensive free access, in-person inspection at the Sherburne County Sheriff's Office Records Division remains the most reliable method. Individuals should call ahead to confirm availability of records and to schedule time for review of physical documents.

How To Delete Arrest Records in Sherburne County

Minnesota law provides specific mechanisms for the sealing or expungement of arrest records under certain circumstances. These processes are governed by Minnesota Statutes Chapter 609A, which establishes the legal framework for removing arrest information from public access.

The distinction between expungement and sealing is important:

• Expungement refers to the legal process of sealing or destroying records related to an arrest, criminal charge, or conviction
• Record sealing restricts public access to records but may still allow access by law enforcement and certain government agencies

Individuals may be eligible to petition for expungement of Sherburne County arrest records in the following circumstances:

1. The charges were dismissed
2. The individual was found not guilty
3. The case was resolved in the petitioner's favor
4. The individual successfully completed a diversion program or stay of adjudication
5. The conviction was for certain low-level offenses after a specified waiting period

The process for expungement in Sherburne County involves:

1. Determining eligibility under Minnesota Statutes § 609A.02
2. Obtaining a complete criminal history report
3. Preparing and filing a petition for expungement with the Sherburne County District Court
4. Serving the petition on all relevant government agencies
5. Attending a court hearing
6. Receiving the court's order (if granted)

Sherburne County District Court
13880 Business Center Drive NW
Elk River, MN 55330
(763) 765-4600
Minnesota Judicial Branch - Sherburne County

Legal assistance is strongly recommended for expungement proceedings. The Central Minnesota Legal Services or Minnesota Legal Aid may provide guidance to eligible individuals. Additionally, the Minnesota Judicial Branch offers self-help resources for expungement petitioners.

It is important to note that expungement is not automatic, and the court has discretion in granting these petitions based on factors outlined in Minnesota Statutes § 609A.03, subdivision 5, including the nature of the offense, the risk to public safety, and the petitioner's need for expungement.

What Happens After Arrest in Sherburne County?

Following an arrest in Sherburne County, individuals enter a structured criminal justice process governed by Minnesota law and local procedures. This process typically follows a sequential progression through several key stages.

The post-arrest procedure generally includes:

1. Booking and Processing

   • The arrestee is transported to the Sherburne County Jail
   • Fingerprinting, photographing, and personal information collection occurs
   • Medical screening is conducted
   • Personal property is inventoried and secured

2. Initial Detention Decision

   • For minor offenses, citation and release may occur
   • For more serious charges, the individual remains in custody pending bail determination
   • Pretrial risk assessment may be conducted

3. First Appearance/Arraignment

   • Occurs within 36 hours of arrest (excluding Sundays and holidays) per Minnesota Rules of Criminal Procedure 4.02
   • Charges are formally presented
   • Constitutional rights are explained
   • Bail or release conditions are established
   • Public defender may be appointed if the defendant qualifies

4. Bail Determination

   • Judicial officer sets bail based on:
     • Nature of charges
     • Public safety risk
     • Flight risk
     • Criminal history
     • Community ties

5. Pretrial Release or Detention

   • Release may occur through:
     • Cash bail
     • Bail bond
     • Release on recognizance
     • Conditional release with supervision
   • High-risk or serious offenders may remain detained

6. Preliminary Hearing/Omnibus Hearing

   • Evidence is reviewed
   • Probable cause is determined
   • Pretrial motions are heard
   • Plea negotiations may begin

7. Charging Decision

   • The Sherburne County Attorney's Office determines formal charges
   • Charges may be:
     • Filed as initially arrested
     • Modified from original arrest charges
     • Declined for prosecution

8. Case Disposition

   • Resolution through:
     • Guilty plea
     • Trial (jury or bench)
     • Dismissal
     • Diversion program

9. Sentencing (if convicted)

   • May include:
     • Incarceration
     • Probation
     • Fines
     • Community service
     • Treatment programs

Throughout this process, individuals have constitutional rights including the right to counsel, the right to remain silent, and the right to due process. The Sherburne County Attorney's Office prosecutes cases, while the Sherburne County Public Defender's Office provides legal representation to qualifying defendants.

How Long Are Arrest Records Kept in Sherburne County?

Arrest records in Sherburne County are subject to retention schedules established under Minnesota law and administrative rules. The Minnesota Government Records Act provides the legal framework for records retention, while specific schedules are developed by the Minnesota Records Disposition Panel.

Law enforcement agencies in Sherburne County typically retain arrest records according to the following guidelines:

• Active Criminal Investigation Data: Maintained as long as the investigation remains active or until applicable statute of limitations expires
• Arrest Reports: Generally retained for a minimum of 6 years from the date of arrest
• Booking Information: Typically maintained for 6-10 years from the date of booking
• Fingerprint Records: Permanently maintained by the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension
• Mugshot Photographs: Retained for a minimum of 6 years, often longer
• Incident Reports Related to Arrests: Maintained for 6-10 years depending on case type

For serious offenses such as homicides, sexual assaults, and other violent felonies, records may be retained permanently. Juvenile arrest records are subject to different retention requirements and access restrictions under Minnesota Statutes § 260B.171.

The Minnesota Official Records Act requires government entities to maintain records that adequately document official activities. This mandate ensures that arrest records are preserved for:

1. Legal and evidentiary purposes
2. Administrative reference
3. Historical documentation
4. Public accountability and transparency

Different agencies within Sherburne County may maintain separate copies of arrest records with varying retention periods:

• Sherburne County Sheriff's Office: Primary custodian of arrest records
• Sherburne County Attorney's Office: Maintains prosecution files related to arrests
• Sherburne County District Court: Retains court records related to criminal cases
• Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension: Maintains statewide criminal history repository

Records that have reached the end of their retention period may be destroyed in accordance with approved disposition schedules, though many law enforcement records are now maintained in electronic formats with extended or indefinite retention capabilities.

How to Find Mugshots in Sherburne County

Mugshots, officially known as booking photographs, are created during the arrest booking process in Sherburne County. These photographs serve as visual identification records of individuals processed into the criminal justice system.

What Mugshots Are

Mugshots typically consist of front-facing and profile (side) photographs taken under standardized conditions. These images capture the appearance of an arrested individual at the time of booking and become part of the official arrest record. Mugshots are created primarily for law enforcement identification purposes but may become accessible to the public under Minnesota's public records laws.

Where Mugshots Are Maintained

In Sherburne County, booking photographs are primarily maintained by:

Sherburne County Sheriff's Office
13880 Business Center Drive NW
Elk River, MN 55330
(763) 765-3500
Sherburne County Sheriff's Office

Municipal police departments within Sherburne County may also maintain mugshots for arrests they process before transferring individuals to county custody.

Finding Mugshots

To obtain mugshots from Sherburne County, individuals may:

1. Submit a public data request to the Sherburne County Sheriff's Office Records Division
2. Provide specific identifying information about the subject (full name, date of birth, approximate arrest date)
3. Pay any applicable fees for reproduction of photographs
4. Specify preferred format (digital or physical copy)

Can Mugshots Be Found Online

Sherburne County provides limited online access to current mugshots through the Sherburne County Jail Roster, which displays booking photographs of individuals currently in custody. Historical mugshots are generally not available through county online systems.

Third-party websites may aggregate and publish mugshots obtained from public records, but these sites:

• May contain outdated or inaccurate information
• Often charge fees for removal of photographs
• Are not officially affiliated with Sherburne County
• May not remove images even after cases are dismissed or expunged

Obtaining Mugshots Officially

The most reliable method for obtaining accurate mugshot records is through direct request to the Sherburne County Sheriff's Office. Requests should be submitted in writing using the county's data request form and should clearly specify:

• The subject's full legal name
• Date of birth (if known)
• Approximate date of arrest
• Case number (if known)
• Requestor's contact information
• Purpose of the request (optional)

Restrictions on Mugshot Access

Access to mugshots may be restricted in certain circumstances, including:

• Juvenile arrests (protected under Minnesota Statutes § 260B.171)
• Ongoing investigations where release could compromise public safety
• Cases that have been expunged by court order
• Certain domestic violence or sexual assault cases
• Cases involving protected witnesses

The Minnesota Government Data Practices Act balances public access rights with privacy protections, and certain elements of arrest records may be redacted even when mugshots are released.

Lookup Arrest Records in Sherburne County

Minnesota Court Records Online

Search for Individuals & Fugitives

Minnesota State Law Library Court Records