Arrest records in Lancaster, California are considered public documents under state law. The California Public Records Act (CPRA), codified in Government Code § 6250-6270, establishes the legal framework for public access to government records, including those related to arrests. Law enforcement agencies in Lancaster maintain these records as part of their official duties and are generally required to make them available upon request.
Members of the public may access arrest records for various legitimate purposes, including:
The Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department, which provides law enforcement services to Lancaster under contract, maintains custody of most local arrest records. While most arrest information is publicly accessible, certain exceptions exist to protect privacy rights, ongoing investigations, and juvenile records pursuant to California Welfare and Institutions Code § 827.
Lancaster residents and interested parties have multiple methods available to obtain arrest records. The Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department Lancaster Station processes record requests according to established protocols. Requestors must follow specific procedures to ensure proper handling of their inquiries.
In-person requests may be submitted at:
Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department - Lancaster Station
501 W. Lancaster Boulevard
Lancaster, CA 93534
(661) 948-8466
Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department
Hours of operation: Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM (excluding holidays)
Alternative methods for obtaining arrest records include:
When requesting records, individuals must provide sufficient identifying information about the subject, including full name, date of birth, and approximate date of arrest. Pursuant to Government Code § 6253(b), agencies may charge reasonable fees to cover the direct costs of duplication or electronic delivery of records.
Standard arrest records maintained by Lancaster law enforcement agencies contain comprehensive documentation of the arrest event. These records serve as official government documentation of an individual's interaction with law enforcement authorities.
Typical information contained in Lancaster arrest records includes:
Photographs taken during booking procedures, commonly known as "mugshots," are typically included in the arrest record. These images are captured for identification purposes and become part of the public record in most circumstances, though recent legislation has placed some restrictions on their commercial use.
The State of California provides legal mechanisms for the expungement of arrest records under specific circumstances. Penal Code § 1203.4 establishes the primary framework for record clearance in Lancaster and throughout the state.
Individuals may petition for expungement if they meet the following criteria:
The expungement process requires filing a petition with the court where the case was adjudicated:
Los Angeles County Superior Court - Antelope Valley Courthouse
42011 4th Street West
Lancaster, CA 93534
(661) 483-5794
Los Angeles County Superior Court
Hours of operation: Monday through Friday, 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM (excluding court holidays)
Petitioners must complete Judicial Council forms CR-180 and CR-181, along with any local forms required by the court. Filing fees apply, though fee waivers may be available for qualifying individuals based on financial need.
Upon granting an expungement, the court issues an order under Penal Code § 1203.4 that:
It should be noted that expungement does not completely erase all records of the arrest or conviction. Rather, the record is modified to show the case was dismissed. Certain government agencies, licensing boards, and employers in sensitive fields may still have access to the expunged record information pursuant to statutory exceptions.