Anne Arundel Public Records /Anne Arundel County Criminal Records

Anne Arundel County Criminal Records

What Is Anne Arundel County Criminal Records

Criminal records in Anne Arundel County constitute official documentation of an individual's interactions with the criminal justice system within the county's jurisdiction. These records are maintained pursuant to Maryland Code, Criminal Procedure § 10-201, which establishes the framework for criminal record keeping throughout the state.

Criminal records encompass several distinct categories:

Arrest Records: Documentation of apprehensions by law enforcement agencies, including the Anne Arundel County Police Department, Annapolis Police Department, and the Anne Arundel County Sheriff's Office. These records exist whether or not charges were subsequently filed.
Court Records: Official documentation of criminal proceedings in the Anne Arundel County Circuit Court and District Court, including arraignments, pleas, trial proceedings, verdicts, and sentencing information.
Correctional Records: Information regarding incarceration in the Anne Arundel County Detention Center, including booking data, custody status, and release information.
Probation/Parole Records: Documentation of supervision terms, compliance, and violations for individuals under community supervision.

The distinction between arrest and conviction records is significant. Arrest records document only that an individual was taken into custody, while conviction records indicate that legal proceedings resulted in a finding of guilt. Under Maryland law, both types of records are maintained, though they carry different implications for public access and potential expungement.

Criminal offenses in Anne Arundel County are categorized as either felonies or misdemeanors:

Felonies: Serious offenses typically punishable by imprisonment exceeding one year, such as murder, rape, armed robbery, and aggravated assault.
Misdemeanors: Less serious offenses carrying penalties of less than one year of incarceration, including simple assault, petty theft, and many traffic violations.

Juvenile records receive special protection under Maryland Code, Courts and Judicial Proceedings § 3-8A-27. These records pertain to individuals under 18 years of age and are generally sealed from public view to protect the privacy and future prospects of young offenders.

Multiple agencies maintain criminal records in Anne Arundel County:

Anne Arundel County Police Department
8495 Veterans Highway
Millersville, MD 21108
410-222-8050
Anne Arundel County Police Department

Anne Arundel County Circuit Court
8 Church Circle
Annapolis, MD 21401
410-222-1397
Anne Arundel County Circuit Court

Anne Arundel County Sheriff's Office
8 Church Circle
Annapolis, MD 21401
410-222-1571
Anne Arundel County Sheriff's Office

Are Criminal Records Public In Anne Arundel County

Criminal records in Anne Arundel County are generally considered public information under the Maryland Public Information Act (Maryland Code, General Provisions § 4-101 et seq.). This statute establishes the presumption that government records, including criminal records, should be accessible to the public unless specifically exempted by law.

The Maryland Public Information Act states: "All persons are entitled to have access to information about the affairs of government and the official acts of public officials and employees." This provision underscores the legislature's intent to promote transparency in government operations, including the criminal justice system.

However, not all criminal records are equally accessible. The following distinctions apply to record accessibility in Anne Arundel County:

Publicly Available Records:

Court records of adult criminal proceedings
Conviction records
Sex offender registry information
Incarceration records for current inmates
Criminal case dispositions

Restricted or Limited Access Records:

Records pertaining to ongoing investigations
Sealed or expunged records
Juvenile records (with limited exceptions)
Records sealed by court order
Certain domestic violence records
Records that would constitute an unwarranted invasion of personal privacy

The Maryland Judiciary has implemented specific rules governing access to court records through Maryland Rules, Title 16, Chapter 900. These rules balance the public's right to information against individual privacy concerns and the integrity of the justice system.

Law enforcement investigative records receive special protection under the Maryland Public Information Act. Records pertaining to active investigations may be withheld if disclosure would interfere with law enforcement proceedings, deprive a person of a fair trial, constitute an unwarranted invasion of personal privacy, or endanger an individual's life or physical safety.

Juvenile records are generally confidential pursuant to Maryland Code, Courts and Judicial Proceedings § 3-8A-27. This confidentiality serves to protect young offenders from the stigma of youthful mistakes and to facilitate rehabilitation. However, certain juvenile records may become accessible if the juvenile is charged as an adult or in cases involving violent crimes.

Individuals seeking access to criminal records in Anne Arundel County must follow established procedures and may be required to provide identification or complete specific forms depending on the type of record requested.

How To Look Up Criminal Records In Anne Arundel County in 2026

Members of the public seeking criminal records in Anne Arundel County may utilize several methods to obtain this information. The county maintains multiple access points for criminal record searches, each with specific procedures and limitations.

For in-person requests at the Anne Arundel County Circuit Court:

Visit the Circuit Court Clerk's Office during regular business hours (Monday through Friday, 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM).
Complete a Record Request Form, available at the clerk's counter.
Provide specific information about the case or individual, including full name and, if possible, case number or date of birth.
Present valid government-issued photo identification.
Pay applicable fees for copies (currently $5.00 for the first page and $0.50 for each additional page).
Wait for staff to retrieve the requested records, which may be available immediately or require additional processing time.

Anne Arundel County Circuit Court
8 Church Circle
Annapolis, MD 21401
410-222-1397
Anne Arundel County Circuit Court

For District Court records:

Visit the District Court location where the case was heard.
Complete a Case Search Request Form at the clerk's office.
Provide the defendant's name and, if possible, case number.
Present valid identification.
Pay applicable fees for copies.

District Court of Maryland for Anne Arundel County - Annapolis
251 Rowe Boulevard
Annapolis, MD 21401
410-260-1370
District Court of Maryland for Anne Arundel County

District Court of Maryland for Anne Arundel County - Glen Burnie
7500 Ritchie Highway
Glen Burnie, MD 21061
410-260-1800
District Court of Maryland for Anne Arundel County

For criminal background checks through the Maryland Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services:

Visit the CJIS Central Repository in person or submit a request by mail.
Complete the required application form.
Provide fingerprints (required for official background checks).
Pay the required fee (currently $38.00 for a full background check).
Allow 5-7 business days for processing.

Criminal Justice Information System (CJIS) Central Repository
6776 Reisterstown Road, Suite 102
Baltimore, MD 21215
410-764-4501
Maryland Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services

For incarceration records:

Contact the Anne Arundel County Department of Detention Facilities.
Provide the inmate's full name and, if possible, date of birth.
Specify the information requested (current incarceration status, release date, etc.).

Anne Arundel County Department of Detention Facilities
600 East Ordnance Road
Glen Burnie, MD 21060
410-222-7085
Anne Arundel County Department of Detention Facilities

Requestors should note that processing times vary depending on the complexity of the request and the agency's current workload. Additionally, certain records may require court orders or other authorization for release.

How To Find Criminal Records in Anne Arundel County Online?

Anne Arundel County residents and interested parties can access various criminal records through several online portals maintained by state and county agencies. These digital resources provide convenient alternatives to in-person requests, though the scope of available information varies by platform.

The primary online resource for court records is the Maryland Judiciary Case Search system, which provides public access to case records from both the District and Circuit Courts throughout Maryland, including Anne Arundel County. This database contains information on criminal, civil, traffic, and certain family law cases.

To use the Maryland Judiciary Case Search:

Navigate to the Maryland Judiciary Case Search portal.
Accept the terms and conditions of use.
Enter search criteria such as name, case number, or filing date.
For name searches, enter at least last name and first initial.
Optionally narrow results by selecting Anne Arundel County from the jurisdiction dropdown.
Review the search results, which include case numbers, filing dates, charge information, and case status.
Click on individual case numbers to view detailed information, including hearing dates, charge disposition, and sentencing information when available.

The Court Records portal provides comprehensive information about accessing both electronic and physical court records throughout Maryland, including Anne Arundel County.

For current inmate information, the Anne Arundel County Department of Detention Facilities maintains an online Inmate Lookup tool:

Visit the Anne Arundel County Inmate Lookup page.
Enter the inmate's last name and first initial.
Review results for current custody status, charges, and bond information.
Note that this database only includes currently incarcerated individuals.

The Maryland Sex Offender Registry provides information about registered sex offenders residing in Anne Arundel County:

Access the Maryland Sex Offender Registry.
Search by name, zip code, or county (select Anne Arundel).
Review results, which include offender photographs, addresses, and conviction information.

For statewide criminal history information, the Maryland Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services offers an online request system:

Visit the DPSCS Criminal History Records Check portal.
Create an account and log in.
Complete the application and pay the required fee.
Note that this service provides only conviction information and requires the subject's consent for third-party requests.

Users should be aware of several limitations when searching online:

Some case details may be redacted pursuant to Maryland Rules on Access to Court Records.
Expunged or sealed records will not appear in online searches.
Juvenile records are generally not available online.
Historical records predating digital systems may not be included.
The most comprehensive information often requires in-person requests.

Can You Search Anne Arundel County Criminal Records for Free?

Anne Arundel County residents and members of the public may access certain criminal records without charge, in accordance with Maryland's Public Information Act (Maryland Code, General Provisions § 4-206). This statute establishes that the public has the right to inspect many government records without cost, though fees may apply for copies or extensive searches.

Free inspection of criminal records is available at the following locations:

Anne Arundel County Circuit Court
8 Church Circle
Annapolis, MD 21401
410-222-1397
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM-4:30 PM
Anne Arundel County Circuit Court

District Court of Maryland for Anne Arundel County - Annapolis
251 Rowe Boulevard
Annapolis, MD 21401
410-260-1370
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM-4:30 PM
District Court of Maryland for Anne Arundel County

Several online resources provide free access to criminal record information:

Maryland Judiciary Case Search: This comprehensive database allows users to search court cases throughout Maryland, including Anne Arundel County criminal proceedings. The system provides case numbers, filing dates, charges, dispositions, and scheduled hearings at no cost. This resource is available 24/7 and requires no registration.
Anne Arundel County Inmate Lookup: The Department of Detention Facilities maintains a free online database of currently incarcerated individuals. This resource provides basic information about inmates, including charges and custody status.
Maryland Sex Offender Registry: This statewide database allows free searches for registered sex offenders residing in Anne Arundel County. The registry includes photographs, addresses, and offense information.
Anne Arundel County Police Department Daily Crime Reports: The police department publishes daily incident reports on its website, providing information about recent criminal activity and arrests at no cost.

While inspection of records is generally free, the following fees may apply:

Photocopies of court documents: $5.00 for the first page, $0.50 for each additional page
Certified copies of court documents: $5.00 per document plus copy fees
Criminal history background checks through CJIS: $38.00
Expedited processing fees: Vary by agency and service level
Research fees for extensive searches: May be charged at hourly rates if staff time exceeds two hours

Individuals seeking to avoid fees should consider:

Inspecting records in person rather than requesting copies
Using online resources when possible
Narrowing search parameters to reduce processing time
Bringing a smartphone or camera to photograph documents (where permitted)

It is important to note that while basic inspection is free, comprehensive criminal history information, particularly for employment or licensing purposes, typically requires payment of established fees to the appropriate agencies.

What's Included in a Anne Arundel County Criminal Record?

Criminal records maintained by Anne Arundel County agencies typically contain comprehensive information about an individual's interactions with the criminal justice system. The specific content varies depending on the maintaining agency and the nature of the case, but generally includes several key categories of information.

Identifying Information:

Full legal name and any known aliases or previous names
Date of birth and age
Physical description including height, weight, eye and hair color
Identifying marks such as scars, tattoos, or birthmarks
Current and previous addresses
State Identification (SID) number
FBI number (if applicable)
Photograph/mugshot from booking
Fingerprint classification

Arrest Information:

Date, time, and location of arrest
Arresting agency and officer identification
Booking number and facility
Charges filed at arrest with corresponding statute citations
Probable cause statement
Bail or bond amount and status
Detention facility information
Property seized during arrest

Court Case Information:

Court case number and jurisdiction (Circuit or District Court)
Filing date and court location
Charging document details
Specific charges with Maryland criminal code citations
Classification of charges (felony or misdemeanor)
Scheduled court appearances and hearing dates
Judge or magistrate assigned to the case
Defense attorney information
Prosecutor information
Plea information
Trial information if applicable

Disposition and Sentencing Information:

Case outcome (guilty, not guilty, dismissed, etc.)
Conviction date if applicable
Sentencing details including:
- Incarceration terms and location
- Probation terms and conditions
- Fines and court costs imposed
- Restitution ordered
- Community service requirements
- Treatment program mandates
Post-conviction modifications
Appeal information if applicable
Probation/parole status and violations
Completion of sentence information

Additional Information:

Active warrants if applicable
Protective or peace orders
Sex offender registration requirements
Firearms prohibitions
DNA collection status
Related traffic violations
Pending charges in other jurisdictions
Prior criminal history references

The level of detail available in publicly accessible records may be limited by various privacy protections and sealing provisions under Maryland law. For example, certain sensitive information such as Social Security numbers, medical information, and victim identifiers are typically redacted from public records.

Criminal records in Anne Arundel County are maintained in compliance with the Maryland Criminal Justice Information System Law, which establishes standards for accuracy, completeness, and security of criminal history record information.

How Long Does Anne Arundel County Keep Criminal Records?

Anne Arundel County maintains criminal records according to retention schedules established by the Maryland State Archives and in compliance with the Maryland Code, State Government § 9-1015, which governs records retention throughout the state. These schedules vary based on the type of record, the severity of the offense, and the final disposition of the case.

Court records in Anne Arundel County are generally retained according to the following schedule:

Felony Cases: Permanent retention for serious felonies including murder, rape, and other violent crimes. Case files are maintained indefinitely by the Circuit Court.
Other Felony Convictions: Minimum retention period of 75 years from the date of final disposition. After this period, records may be transferred to the Maryland State Archives for historical preservation.
Misdemeanor Convictions: Typically retained for 10-20 years depending on the offense category. More serious misdemeanors (such as DUI/DWI, domestic violence) have longer retention periods than minor offenses.
Dismissed Cases: Generally retained for 3-5 years before being eligible for destruction, though records of the dismissal may be maintained in index form for longer periods.
Acquittals: Maintained for 3 years, after which they may be destroyed, though court indices noting the existence of the case may be retained longer.
Probation Before Judgment (PBJ): Typically retained for 10 years from the date of disposition.

Law enforcement records follow different retention schedules:

Arrest Records: Generally maintained for a minimum of 75 years by the arresting agency and the Criminal Justice Information System.
Investigation Reports: Retained for varying periods based on case type - homicide investigations are permanent, while other investigations may be retained for 10-25 years.
Booking Photos and Fingerprints: Maintained indefinitely in electronic format by the Maryland Criminal Justice Information System.
Incarceration Records: Detention records are typically retained for 10 years after release from custody, though basic demographic information and incarceration dates may be maintained longer.

It is important to note that even when physical records are destroyed according to retention schedules, electronic indices or summary information may be maintained for significantly longer periods. Additionally, records that have been microfilmed or digitized may be retained permanently in these formats even after paper originals are destroyed.

The Maryland Judiciary has implemented a records retention and disposal schedule that provides detailed guidance on the maintenance of court records throughout the state, including Anne Arundel County.

Individuals seeking expungement of criminal records should be aware that expungement does not necessarily result in the physical destruction of all records. Rather, expunged records are segregated and shielded from public view in accordance with Maryland Code, Criminal Procedure § 10-101 et seq.

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