Arrest records are public in Orange County, California, pursuant to the California Public Records Act (Government Code § 6250-6276.48). This legislation establishes the public's right to access governmental records, including arrest information, with certain statutory exemptions. The Orange County Sheriff's Department maintains these records as part of their commitment to transparency and public oversight of law enforcement activities.
Members of the public may access arrest records through various channels established by local law enforcement agencies. The California Constitution, Article I, Section 3(b)(1) further reinforces this right by stating that "the people have the right of access to information concerning the conduct of the people's business."
Certain exceptions to public disclosure exist under Government Code § 6254, including:
Orange County Sheriff's Department
550 N. Flower Street
Santa Ana, CA 92703
(714) 647-7000
Orange County Sheriff's Department
Orange County arrest records are accessible online through several official platforms maintained by county agencies. The Orange County Sheriff's Department provides digital access to booking information and inmate status through their Inmate Information System. This online accessibility is authorized under California Government Code § 6253.9, which addresses electronic record access.
The digital availability of these records serves multiple public interests:
Online records typically include basic arrest information, booking photos, and custody status. Pursuant to California Penal Code § 13300-13302, certain detailed criminal history information may be restricted from online access and require formal requests through designated channels.
Superior Court of California, County of Orange
700 Civic Center Drive West
Santa Ana, CA 92701
(657) 622-7000
Superior Court of California, County of Orange
Multiple methods exist for obtaining Orange County arrest records in 2025. Individuals seeking such information may utilize the following official channels:
Online Database Access
In-Person Requests
Written Requests
Third-Party Background Check Services
Pursuant to Government Code § 6253(b), agencies may charge fees to cover the direct costs of duplication or electronic production of records.
Orange County Inmate Records
550 N. Flower Street
Santa Ana, CA 92703
(714) 647-4666
Orange County Inmate Records
Orange County arrest records contain standardized information as required by California Penal Code § 13150-13151. These official documents typically include the following elements:
Biographical Information
Arrest Details
Case Processing Information
Identification Records
The Orange County Sheriff's Department Records Division maintains these records in accordance with state retention requirements. Certain sensitive information may be redacted from public copies pursuant to Government Code § 6254(f).
Individuals may petition for expungement of arrest records in Orange County pursuant to California Penal Code § 851.8 (arrest without conviction) or § 1203.4 (conviction relief). The expungement process removes eligible arrests or convictions from public access, though records remain available to law enforcement and certain government agencies.
Eligibility criteria for expungement include:
The expungement process requires:
Individuals seeking expungement may obtain assistance through the California Courts Self-Help Center or legal aid organizations. Expungement does not eliminate all consequences of an arrest or conviction, particularly for certain professional licenses, immigration matters, or sex offender registration requirements.
Orange County Public Defender's Office
801 Civic Center Drive West, Suite 400
Santa Ana, CA 92701
(714) 834-2144
Orange County Public Defender