Torrance Arrest Records
Are Arrest Records Public in Torrance, California?
Arrest records in Torrance, California are classified as public documents pursuant to the California Public Records Act (Government Code § 6250-6270). This legislation establishes that records maintained by state and local agencies shall be accessible to members of the public, with certain statutory exceptions. The California Public Records Act serves as the legal foundation for transparency in governmental operations, enabling citizens to obtain information regarding arrests made within the jurisdiction of Torrance.
The Torrance Police Department maintains these records in accordance with state regulations. Interested parties may request access to arrest records through established protocols, subject to applicable privacy restrictions and exemptions as outlined in Government Code § 6254. These exemptions may include records pertaining to ongoing investigations or those involving juvenile offenders.
Public access to arrest records supports the principles of governmental accountability and transparency while balancing individual privacy considerations as mandated by California law.
How to Look Up Torrance Arrest Records in 2025
Multiple official channels exist through which members of the public may access arrest records in Torrance, California. The following methods are available for conducting arrest record searches:
In-person requests may be submitted at the Torrance Police Department Records Division, located at 3300 Civic Center Drive, Torrance, CA 90503. The public counter operates Monday through Friday, 7:30 AM to 5:30 PM. Requestors must complete a Public Records Request form and present valid identification.
Electronic requests can be submitted through the City of Torrance's official online portal. Pursuant to Government Code § 6253.9, electronic records shall be made available in electronic format when requested.
Written requests may be mailed to: Torrance Police Department, Records Division, 3300 Civic Center Drive, Torrance, CA 90503. Include the full name of the subject, date of birth, and approximate date of arrest to facilitate processing.
Court records related to arrests may be accessed through the Los Angeles County Superior Court, Torrance Courthouse, located at 825 Maple Avenue, Torrance, CA 90503. The courthouse is open Monday through Friday, 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM, telephone: (310) 787-3700.
Processing times for record requests vary based on workload and complexity. Standard requests typically require 10 business days for completion, as permitted under Government Code § 6253(c). Expedited processing may be available for certain qualifying circumstances.
Fees for record retrieval are established in accordance with Government Code § 6253(b), which permits agencies to charge for the direct cost of duplication. The current fee schedule includes $0.10 per page for standard documents and $15 for certified copies of reports.
Contents of a Torrance Arrest Record
Arrest records maintained by the Torrance Police Department contain standardized information as required by California Penal Code § 13150. These official documents typically include the following elements:
Biographical information of the arrested individual, including full legal name, known aliases, date of birth, physical description, and residential address at time of arrest.
Arrest details, including the date, time, and specific location where the apprehension occurred within Torrance city limits.
Booking information, including the unique booking number assigned, fingerprint classification, and photographic documentation (mugshot) taken during processing.
Criminal charges filed, including the California Penal Code sections allegedly violated and the classification of offenses as misdemeanors or felonies.
Arresting agency information, including the name and badge number of the primary arresting officer and any assisting personnel.
Disposition information, if available, indicating whether the case proceeded to prosecution, was dismissed, or resulted in conviction.
Bail information, including the amount set and whether the individual was released on their own recognizance.
It should be noted that pursuant to California Penal Code § 13300, certain information may be redacted from publicly available arrest records to protect ongoing investigations, confidential informants, or juvenile privacy rights. Medical information contained within arrest records is protected under Health and Safety Code § 123110 and is generally not subject to public disclosure.
Expungement of Arrest Records in Torrance
The process of expungement in Torrance operates under the provisions of California Penal Code § 1203.4 and § 851.8, providing eligible individuals with a legal pathway to clear their arrest records. Expungement does not result in the physical destruction of records but rather restricts their accessibility to the general public.
Eligibility criteria for expungement in Torrance include:
- Successful completion of all terms of probation, if applicable
- Full payment of all fines, restitution, and court fees
- No current charges pending against the petitioner
- No serving of a sentence for any offense
- Specific time periods must have elapsed since the arrest or conviction
The procedural requirements for expungement include:
- Filing a Petition for Dismissal (form CR-180) with the Los Angeles County Superior Court, Torrance Courthouse
- Submitting a Declaration (form CR-181) detailing the case and reasons for seeking expungement
- Payment of filing fees, currently $120 for misdemeanors and $150 for felonies (fee waivers available for qualifying individuals)
- Notification of the Torrance City Prosecutor's Office and Los Angeles County District Attorney's Office
The petition must be filed with the Los Angeles County Superior Court, Torrance Courthouse, located at 825 Maple Avenue, Torrance, CA 90503. The court clerk's office is available by telephone at (310) 787-3700 for procedural inquiries.
Upon approval of an expungement petition, the court will issue an order under Penal Code § 1203.4 dismissing the conviction. The California Department of Justice and Torrance Police Department will then update their records to reflect this change in status. Expunged records remain accessible to criminal justice agencies, licensing boards, and certain employers as authorized by law.
Individuals with complex cases may benefit from legal assistance through the Los Angeles County Public Defender's Office, located at 210 W. Temple Street, 19th Floor, Los Angeles, CA 90012, telephone: (213) 974-2811.
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