Kanawha County Arrest Records
Are Arrest Records Public in Kanawha County
Arrest records in Kanawha County are considered public information under the West Virginia Freedom of Information Act. Pursuant to W. Va. Code § 29B-1-1 et seq., members of the public have the legal right to access government records, including those pertaining to arrests made by law enforcement agencies within the county. This statute establishes the presumption that all government records are open to public inspection unless specifically exempted by law.
It is important to note the distinction 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, by contrast, indicates that the individual was found guilty of the crime in a court of law. Under West Virginia law, both types of records are generally accessible to the public, though certain exceptions may apply.
The West Virginia State Police maintains the central repository for criminal history information in the state, including records from Kanawha County. While arrest records are public, access may be restricted in certain circumstances, such as when:
- The record pertains to a juvenile (under 18 years of age)
- The record has been expunged or sealed by court order
- The record is part of an ongoing investigation
- Release would constitute an unwarranted invasion of personal privacy under W. Va. Code § 29B-1-4(a)(2)
Law enforcement agencies in Kanawha County, including the Kanawha County Sheriff's Office, maintain arrest records and make certain information available to the public in accordance with state law.
What's in Kanawha County Arrest Records
Arrest records in Kanawha County 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
- Circumstances leading to arrest
- Whether force was used during arrest
Charge Information:
- Criminal charges filed
- Statute or ordinance citations
- Charge classification (felony, misdemeanor)
- Charge severity level
- Description of alleged criminal activity
Warrant Information (if applicable):
- Warrant number
- Issuing court
- Date issued
- Type of warrant (arrest, bench, search)
- Judge who signed the warrant
Booking Information:
- Booking date and time
- Booking number
- Processing officer
- Property inventory
- Medical screening information
Bond/Bail Information:
- Bond amount
- Bond type (cash, surety, personal recognizance)
- Bond status (posted, denied, pending)
- Conditions of release
Court Information:
- Court of jurisdiction
- Case number
- Scheduled court appearances
- Judge assigned to case
- Plea entered
Custody Status:
- Current detention status
- Facility where detained
- Projected release date (if applicable)
- Custody level classification
Additional Information May Include:
- Prior criminal history
- Probation/parole status at time of arrest
- Immigration status
- Emergency contact information
- Vehicle information (if relevant to arrest)
- Victim information (redacted in public versions)
The specific content of arrest records may vary depending on the arresting agency and the circumstances of the arrest. Certain sensitive information may be redacted from public versions of these records in accordance with W. Va. Code § 29B-1-4.
How To Look Up Arrest Records in Kanawha County in 2026
Members of the public seeking arrest records in Kanawha County may utilize several methods to obtain this information. The county maintains multiple access points for arrest record retrieval, each with specific procedures:
In-Person Requests:
Individuals may request arrest records by visiting the appropriate agency in person:
Kanawha County Sheriff's Office
301 Virginia Street East
Charleston, WV 25301
(304) 357-0200
Kanawha County Sheriff's Office
Operating hours: Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM
When making an in-person request, requesters should:
- Bring government-issued photo identification
- Complete a public records request form
- Provide as much specific information as possible about the record sought
- Be prepared to pay applicable fees for record retrieval and copying
Written Requests:
Written requests may be submitted via mail or email:
-
Prepare a written request including:
- Requester's full name and contact information
- Specific information sought (name of arrestee, date of arrest, case number if known)
- Purpose of request (optional but may expedite processing)
- Date range for records search
-
Submit the request to:
- Mail: Records Division, Kanawha County Sheriff's Office, 301 Virginia Street East, Charleston, WV 25301
- Email: records@kanawhasheriff.us
Phone Requests:
Limited information may be available via telephone:
- Call the Records Division at (304) 357-0169
- Provide identifying information about the arrest record sought
- Note that detailed records typically require written follow-up
Third-Party Background Check Services:
Commercial background check services may provide arrest record information, though these sources may not be as comprehensive or current as official county records. Users of such services should verify information obtained through commercial vendors with official sources.
Pursuant to W. Va. Code § 29B-1-3(4), agencies must respond to records requests within five business days, either by providing the records, denying the request with a written explanation, or requesting an extension if additional time is needed to fulfill the request.
How To Find Kanawha County Arrest Records Online
Kanawha County provides several digital resources for accessing arrest records online. These electronic systems offer convenient alternatives to in-person requests, though the scope of information may vary by platform.
The Kanawha County Sheriff's Office website serves as a primary portal for online arrest record searches. The website features a searchable database of active warrants and recent arrests. To conduct a search:
- Navigate to the Sheriff's Office website
- Select the "Warrants Search" option from the menu
- Enter search criteria (name, date range, etc.)
- Review the results displayed
- Note that not all arrest records may be available through this system
The West Virginia Regional Jail Authority maintains an inmate search function that includes individuals arrested and detained in Kanawha County. This database is updated regularly and provides:
- Current custody status
- Facility location
- Charges
- Bond information
- Scheduled court dates
For court records related to arrests, the West Virginia Judiciary offers an online case information system. To access these records:
- Visit the West Virginia Judiciary website
- Select "Case Search" from the available options
- Choose "Kanawha County" from the jurisdiction menu
- Enter the name of the individual or case number
- Review the case information, which may include arrest details
The West Virginia State Police provides access to the state's criminal history repository, which includes Kanawha County arrest records. This service requires:
- Creation of an online account
- Payment of applicable fees
- Submission of identifying information
- Compliance with state regulations regarding criminal history access
When using online systems, users should be aware that:
- Some records may be restricted or redacted
- Recent arrests may not appear immediately
- Technical limitations may affect search functionality
- Official verification may be required for certain purposes
Online access to arrest records is governed by W. Va. Code § 29B-1-3, which establishes parameters for electronic record provision while maintaining privacy protections.
How To Search Kanawha County Arrest Records for Free?
Members of the public may access Kanawha County arrest records without cost through several available channels. These free resources provide varying levels of detail and may be suitable for different informational needs.
The Kanawha County Sheriff's Office warrant database offers a no-cost method to search for individuals with active warrants. This publicly accessible tool provides:
- Names of individuals with outstanding warrants
- Warrant types and charges
- Limited case information
- Updated information on wanted persons
The West Virginia Regional Jail Authority inmate search functions as another free resource for arrest information. This database includes:
- Current inmates in regional facilities
- Individuals recently arrested in Kanawha County
- Basic charge information
- Custody status updates
For court records related to arrests, the public may utilize the Magistrate Court Record Search provided by the West Virginia Judiciary. While this system does not provide document copies, it offers free case status information including:
- Case numbers
- Charges filed
- Hearing dates
- Case disposition
Local news media outlets often publish arrest reports and booking information as part of their public service function. These sources typically include:
- Names of individuals arrested for significant crimes
- Basic arrest circumstances
- Charges filed
- Agency responsible for arrest
The Kanawha County Public Library maintains public access computers where individuals may access online resources without charge. Library staff can provide guidance on navigating public records systems.
Kanawha County Public Library
123 Capitol Street
Charleston, WV 25301
(304) 343-4646
Kanawha County Public Library
When utilizing free search options, requesters should note:
- Information may be limited compared to official record requests
- Recent arrests may not appear immediately
- Some systems may require basic registration
- Records requiring extensive research may still incur fees
Pursuant to W. Va. Code § 29B-1-3(5), while agencies may charge reasonable fees for record reproduction, they cannot charge for simple record inspection or basic electronic access to commonly requested public records.
How To Delete Arrest Records in Kanawha County
The process of removing arrest records from public access in Kanawha County involves specific legal mechanisms established under West Virginia law. Two primary options exist: expungement (complete legal erasure) and record sealing (restricting public access while maintaining the record for limited official purposes).
Under W. Va. Code § 61-11-26, certain arrest records may be eligible for expungement if:
- The charges were dismissed
- The individual was found not guilty
- The case resulted in an acquittal
- The arrest did not lead to charges being filed within the statute of limitations
- The individual completed a diversion program or deferred adjudication
The expungement process in Kanawha County requires:
- Filing a Petition for Expungement with the Kanawha County Circuit Court
- Paying the required filing fee (approximately $200)
- Obtaining a criminal background check from the West Virginia State Police
- Attending a hearing before a circuit judge
- If granted, serving the expungement order on all agencies with records
Kanawha County Circuit Court
111 Court Street
Charleston, WV 25301
(304) 357-0400
Kanawha County Circuit Court
For certain non-violent felony convictions, W. Va. Code § 61-11-26a provides a pathway for expungement after a waiting period of five years following completion of the sentence, provided the individual has no subsequent arrests or convictions.
Record sealing, which restricts public access while maintaining records for law enforcement and judicial purposes, may be available for:
- Juvenile records (automatically sealed at age 18 for most offenses)
- First-time drug offenses after successful completion of drug court
- Certain misdemeanor convictions after prescribed waiting periods
Individuals seeking expungement or record sealing are strongly advised to consult with legal counsel, as the process involves complex statutory requirements and procedural rules. The Kanawha County Public Defender's Office may provide assistance to qualifying individuals:
Kanawha County Public Defender's Office
707 Virginia Street East
Charleston, WV 25301
(304) 348-2323
Kanawha County Public Defender
It is important to note that certain records are ineligible for expungement under state law, including:
- Most violent felonies
- Sexual offenses
- Offenses against minors
- DUI offenses resulting in injury or death
Even after expungement, certain government agencies may retain access to the records for specific purposes, such as law enforcement investigations and employment screening for sensitive positions.
What Happens After Arrest in Kanawha County?
Following an arrest in Kanawha County, individuals enter a structured criminal justice process governed by West Virginia law and local procedures. This process typically progresses through several defined stages:
Initial Custody and Booking: Upon arrest, individuals are transported to a detention facility, usually the South Central Regional Jail for Kanawha County arrests. The booking process includes:
- Photograph and fingerprinting
- Personal property inventory
- Medical screening
- Background check
- Initial charge documentation
Magistrate Appearance: Within 24 hours of arrest, defendants appear before a Kanawha County Magistrate for an initial hearing where:
- Charges are formally presented
- Constitutional rights are explained
- Bail/bond determinations are made
- Preliminary hearing dates are set for felony cases
- Public defender appointments occur for qualifying individuals
Pretrial Release Considerations: The magistrate determines whether the defendant may be released pending trial based on:
- Nature and severity of charges
- Prior criminal history
- Community ties and flight risk
- Public safety concerns
- Ability to post bond
Preliminary Hearing (Felony Cases): For felony charges, a preliminary hearing must be held within 10 days if the defendant is in custody or 20 days if released. During this hearing:
- The prosecution presents evidence establishing probable cause
- The defense may challenge evidence and cross-examine witnesses
- The magistrate determines if sufficient evidence exists to proceed
- Cases with sufficient evidence are bound over to the Circuit Court
Grand Jury Indictment (Felony Cases): Felony cases in Kanawha County typically proceed through grand jury review, where:
- Prosecutors present evidence to a citizen panel
- The grand jury determines if probable cause exists
- If indicted, the case advances to Circuit Court
- If not indicted, charges may be dismissed
Arraignment: Following indictment or for misdemeanor cases, defendants appear for arraignment where:
- Formal charges are read
- Defendants enter a plea (guilty, not guilty, no contest)
- Trial dates are established
- Pretrial motions are scheduled
Plea Negotiations: Most cases in Kanawha County are resolved through plea negotiations rather than trial. This process involves:
- Discussions between prosecution and defense
- Potential charge reductions or sentencing recommendations
- Judicial approval of any agreement reached
- Formal plea entry and sentencing
Trial: If a case proceeds to trial, defendants have the right to:
- A jury trial for most charges
- Present evidence and witnesses
- Cross-examine prosecution witnesses
- Testify on their own behalf (or decline to do so)
- Appeal convictions under certain circumstances
Sentencing: Following conviction by plea or trial, sentencing occurs based on:
- West Virginia sentencing guidelines
- Pre-sentence investigation reports
- Victim impact statements
- Mitigating and aggravating factors
- Judicial discretion within statutory limits
Throughout this process, arrest records are generated and maintained by various agencies, becoming part of the individual's criminal history record unless later expunged or sealed by court order.
How Long Are Arrest Records Kept in Kanawha County?
Arrest records in Kanawha County are subject to retention requirements established by West Virginia law and administrative regulations. The West Virginia Records Management and Preservation Board establishes retention schedules for law enforcement records, including those pertaining to arrests.
Under W. Va. Code § 5A-8-15, government records must be maintained according to established retention schedules. For arrest records specifically, the following retention periods generally apply:
Arrest Reports and Booking Information:
- Felony arrests: Permanent retention
- Misdemeanor arrests: Minimum 10-year retention
- Arrests not resulting in charges: 5-year retention
- Juvenile arrest records: Until age 18, then sealed (with exceptions)
Fingerprint Records:
- Felony arrests: Permanent retention by the West Virginia State Police
- Misdemeanor arrests: Minimum 10-year retention
- Expunged cases: Destroyed upon court order
Mugshot Photographs:
- Felony arrests: Permanent retention
- Misdemeanor arrests: Retained for 10 years
- Expunged cases: Destroyed upon court order
Investigation Files Related to Arrests:
- Felony cases: Permanent retention
- Misdemeanor cases: 10-year retention after case closure
- Unsolved cases: Permanent retention
Warrant Records:
- Executed warrants: Retained with corresponding case file
- Unexecuted warrants: Retained until expiration or recall
- Bench warrants: Retained until executed or recalled by the court
Different agencies within Kanawha County may maintain separate records systems with varying retention practices:
- The Kanawha County Sheriff's Office maintains arrest records according to county retention schedules
- The Charleston Police Department and other municipal agencies follow municipal retention policies
- The West Virginia State Police maintains the central repository for all fingerprint and criminal history information
- Court records related to arrests are maintained by the Kanawha County Circuit Clerk and Magistrate Court
It is important to note that even when physical records reach the end of their retention period, digital records and database entries may be maintained for longer periods. Additionally, records that have been published in newspapers, court dockets, or other public forums may remain accessible even after official records are destroyed or sealed.
The retention of arrest records serves several important public purposes:
- Preserving evidence for potential future legal proceedings
- Maintaining accurate criminal history information for law enforcement
- Ensuring accountability in the criminal justice system
- Supporting statistical analysis and policy development
- Providing historical documentation of law enforcement activities
Individuals seeking information about specific record retention periods should contact the agency that created or maintains the record in question.
How to Find Mugshots in Kanawha County
Mugshot photographs, officially known as booking photographs, are created during the arrest booking process in Kanawha County. These images serve as official documentation of an individual's appearance at the time of arrest and become part of the arrest record.
What Mugshots Are: Mugshots typically consist of front-facing and profile (side) photographs taken under standardized conditions. These photographs document:
- The physical appearance of the arrested individual
- Identifying features such as scars, tattoos, or other marks
- The general condition of the individual at the time of arrest
- A booking identification number or case reference
Where Mugshots Are Maintained: In Kanawha County, booking photographs are primarily maintained by:
South Central Regional Jail
1001 Centre Way
Charleston, WV 25309
(304) 558-1635
West Virginia Regional Jail Authority
Kanawha County Sheriff's Office
301 Virginia Street East
Charleston, WV 25301
(304) 357-0200
Kanawha County Sheriff's Office
Finding Mugshots: To obtain official copies of booking photographs, individuals may:
- Submit a written public records request to the arresting agency or detention facility
- Provide specific identifying information including:
- Full name of the individual
- Date of birth
- Date of arrest
- Case or booking number (if known)
- Pay applicable fees for record reproduction
- Present valid identification when collecting requested records
Can Mugshots Be Found Online: Some booking photographs may be accessible online through:
- The Kanawha County Sheriff's Office website, which may publish recent booking photos
- The West Virginia Regional Jail Authority inmate search, which may include booking photos for current inmates
- Local news media websites, which may publish booking photos for newsworthy arrests
- Third-party websites that aggregate mugshot information
Obtaining Mugshots Officially: For certified or official copies of booking photographs, requesters should:
- Contact the Records Division of the arresting agency
- Complete a formal public records request form
- Provide proper identification
- Specify the intended use of the photographs
- Pay established fees for record reproduction
Restrictions on Mugshot Access: Access to booking photographs may be restricted in certain circumstances:
- Juvenile arrestees (under 18 years of age)
- Expunged or sealed arrest records
- Ongoing sensitive investigations
- Cases where release would constitute an unwarranted invasion of privacy
- Arrests related to certain protected categories of offenses
It is important to note that while mugshots are generally considered public records under West Virginia law, their publication and use may be subject to legal limitations. Commercial websites that publish mugshots and then charge for removal may be operating in violation of various state laws regarding exploitation of public records.