Are Criminal Records in Pinellas County Publicly Accessible?

Yes, criminal records in Pinellas County, Florida, are generally accessible to the public. Florida operates under the Florida Public Records Act (Chapter 119, Florida Statutes), which ensures transparency by granting the public the right to access government records, including criminal records. These records are maintained by various agencies, such as the Pinellas County Clerk of Court, the Pinellas County Sheriff's Office, and the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE).

However, there are exceptions and restrictions. Records that are sealed, expunged, or involve juvenile cases are not accessible to the general public. Additionally, information protected by privacy laws, such as social security numbers, victims' details, and medical information, is typically redacted. Ongoing investigations or cases involving national security may be restricted.

Who is Eligible to Access Pinellas County Criminal Records in Florida?

The following groups are eligible to access criminal records in Pinellas County, with specific requirements and limitations.

• The general public can access non-sealed and non-expunged records but cannot access sealed, expunged, or juvenile records.
• Law enforcement officers have full access to all criminal records for official purposes, but they are restricted from sharing sealed or expunged records without proper authorization.
• Employers can also conduct background checks with written consent from the individual; however, sealed or expunged records are not available unless explicitly stated.
• Attorneys may request records for legal proceedings or appeals. However, access to sealed or expunged records requires a court order.
• Victims/Defendants may access records related to their case for legal or restitution purposes.

How to Request Criminal Records in Pinellas County

Here's a step-by-step guide to requesting criminal records in Pinellas County:

Step 1: Identify the Type of Record you need

• Arrest records are maintained by the Pinellas County Sheriff's Office.
• Court Records are available through the Pinellas County Clerk of Court.
• Statewide Background checks are provided by the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE).

Step 2: Select your Request method

You can request criminal records using the following methods:

1. Online: Many records can be accessed through online portals, such as the Pinellas County Clerk of Court's website.
2. In-person: Visit the relevant agency’s office to submit a request.
3. By Mail: Send a written request with required details and fees

Step 3: Provide Necessary Information

Include the following details to facilitate your request.

• Full name and aliases of the person whose record you are requesting.
• Date of birth or case number.
• Your contact details and a valid government-issued ID for identification purposes.

Step 4: Pay applicable fees

Agencies may charge fees for processing requests. For example.

• Basic search Fees for FDLE:$24
• Certified copies may cost more.

Step 5: Submit your Request

Send your request to the appropriate agency. Below are key addresses:

Pinellas County Clerk of Court
315 Court Street,
Clearwater, FL 33756
Phone: (727) 464-7000

Pinellas County Sheriff's Office
10750 Ulmerton Road,
Largo, FL 33756
Phone: (727) 582-6200

Florida Department of Law Enforcement(FDLE)
2331 Phillips Road,
Tallahassee, FL 32308
Phone: (850) 410-8109
Email: Backgroundchecks@fdle.state.fl.us

Records can be accessed via third-party platforms such as Floridacourtrecords.us

What Information Is Contained in Pinellas County Criminal Records?

Criminal records in Pinellas County typically include the following details:

• The individual's name, date of birth, and physical description like height, weight, race and gender.
• Information about past arrests, including the date of the arrest, charges, and arresting agency.
• Details on the charges filed against the individual, the outcome of any trials, and whether the individual was convicted or acquitted.
• Sentencing information, including fines, probation, and imprisonment.
• Specific dates when the individual appeared in court and unique case identification numbers.
• Information about any probation or parole sentences that have been imposed, including terms and conditions of such sentences.
• Information on the type of crime (felony, misdemeanor), any special conditions related to the conviction, and whether the individual has a history of similar offenses.

Redacted information on criminal records.

• Juvenile records are generally excluded from public criminal records.
• Expunged or sealed cases are not included in public criminal records.
• Ongoing investigations may result in certain information being redacted to prevent harm to the case.
• Juvenile records, sealed or expunged cases, social security numbers and victim details are excluded to comply with privacy laws.

Are There Restrictions on Accessing Criminal Records in Pinellas County?

Yes, certain restrictions apply to accessing criminal records in Pinellas County. These include.

1. Sealed Records are inaccessible to the public and require a court order for access.
2. Expunged Records are treated as though they never existed and are inaccessible to all except under exceptional circumstances.
3. Juvenile records are confidential and only accessible to individuals, legal guardians, attorneys, or specified agencies.
4. Access to ongoing investigations is restricted to protect the integrity of the investigation and public safety.
5. Privacy laws and certain details, such as victims' identities and social security numbers, are always redacted.

Despite these restrictions, law enforcement agencies and courts retain access to sealed or expunged records for specific purposes.

What Happens if My Request for Criminal Records is Denied in Pinellas County?

If your request for criminal records is denied, you can do the following

• Determine if the record is sealed, expunged, or otherwise restricted.
• Reach out to the agency that denied your request for clarification or corrections if there are errors.
• File an appeal with the agency's public records officer or pursue legal action.
• Consult an attorney who can guide you in accessing restricted records or in challenging the denial then submit a formal complaint to the Florida Attorney General's office for unresolved issues.

How to Expunge or Seal Pinellas County Criminal Records

The process to expunge or seal criminal records in Pinellas County involves the following:

• Determine eligibility as only certain offenses qualify which includes non-violent,first time offenses and are usually eligible after a specified waiting period.
• Submit a petition for expungement or sealing to the appropriate court, including a certificate of eligibility from FDLE.
• Attend a hearing where a judge will review your case and determine eligibility.
• Once approved, the record is sealed or expunged, making it inaccessible to the public.