Sacramento CA criminal records are official documents that show a person’s arrests, charges, court cases, and outcomes in Sacramento County. These records come from trusted sources like the Sacramento Superior Court, Sheriff’s Office, Police Department, and California Department of Justice. Anyone can view or request copies, but rules and fees apply. This page explains exactly how to find, view, and get copies of criminal records in Sacramento, CA, whether you’re a member of the public, a government agency, or a legal professional. You’ll learn about free online tools, in-person services, certified copies, fees, timelines, and special programs like Proposition 47 petitions. All information is current as of 2024 and based on official Sacramento County and California state sources.
Where to Find Sacramento CA Criminal Records
There are three main places to find Sacramento CA criminal records: the Sacramento Superior Court, the Sacramento County Sheriff’s Office, and the California Department of Justice. Each source has different types of records and access rules. The Superior Court holds case files, dockets, and court decisions. The Sheriff’s Office keeps arrest logs, booking details, and warrant information. The Department of Justice manages statewide criminal history reports, including fingerprints and convictions. Most records are public, but some may be sealed, expunged, or restricted by law. Always check the most recent rules before making a request.
Superior Court Records
The Sacramento Superior Court is the main source for criminal case records. These include charging documents, court hearings, sentencing, and final judgments. Records go back to 1989 and are available online through the Public Case Access System. You can search by name, case number, or date. The court also offers certified copies for legal use. Visit Room 215 at 720 9th Street, Sacramento, CA 95814, or call 916-874-8881 for help. Hours are Monday to Friday, 8:00 am to 4:30 pm.
Sheriff’s Office Records
The Sacramento County Sheriff’s Office maintains arrest and booking records. These show when someone was arrested, where, and what charges were filed. You can search online or request records in person. The Sheriff’s database updates nightly and includes active warrants. Some details may be limited for privacy or ongoing investigations. For full reports, you may need to submit a formal request with ID and a small fee.
California Department of Justice Records
The California DOJ manages statewide criminal history reports. These are often called “Live Scan” reports and include convictions, pending charges, and dispositions. Only individuals can request their own record using Form BJ-101 and a fingerprint card. The fee is $25, and processing takes four to six weeks. Employers and agencies must use authorized channels and cannot access personal records without consent.
How to Search for Sacramento CA Criminal Records Online
You can search for Sacramento CA criminal records online using free tools from the court and county. The best option is the Public Case Access System (PCAS). It’s free, easy to use, and updated daily. You’ll need to create an account with your email. Once logged in, choose “Criminal” from the case type menu. Then enter a name, case number, or date range. Results show case status, judge, charges, and court dates. Click any case number to view the full docket, charging document, or motions. PCAS only includes cases from Sacramento Superior Court. It does not show arrest logs, police reports, or records from other counties or federal courts.
Using the County Office Criminal Search Tool
The County Office website offers another free search tool. It combines data from the Sheriff, Police, and Court. You can search by name, date of birth, or case number. Results include arrest dates, charge codes (like PC 187 for murder), bond amounts, and court outcomes. Each record has a downloadable PDF with the arrest report and sentencing order. The database refreshes every 48 hours. A $5 fee applies if you want a full certified record package. This tool is great for background checks or personal research.
Private Lookup Services
Some private websites offer Sacramento CA criminal records for a fee. These services pull data from public sources but charge $9.95 per search. They may show arrest logs, warrants, and court cases. However, they do not guarantee accuracy or completeness. Sealed or expunged records may still appear. Always verify results with official sources. Private sites are not affiliated with the government and should not be used for legal decisions.
How to Request Certified Copies of Sacramento CA Criminal Records
If you need a certified copy of a Sacramento CA criminal record, you must submit a formal request. Certified copies have the official court seal and are valid for legal use, such as background checks, immigration, or employment. Only government agencies can request certified copies directly from the court. Individuals can get certified records through the California DOJ or by visiting the court in person.
For Government Agencies
Agencies must use the official “Request for Criminal Record Copy” form (CR-001). Include the agency name, case number, and a $15 processing fee. Attach a notarized statement explaining why you need the record. Mail or deliver the form to the Criminal Records Front Counter at 720 9th Street, Room 215. Processing takes five to seven business days. You’ll receive the copy by USPS Priority Mail or a secure download link. For Proposition 47, Proposition 64, or SB-384 petitions, use the court’s online portal to track status. The portal updates every 24 hours.
For Individuals
Individuals cannot get certified court copies directly. Instead, request your own criminal history from the California Department of Justice. Fill out Form BJ-101, submit a DOJ-510 fingerprint card, and pay $25 by certified check or money order. Mail everything to: Bureau of Criminal Identification and Analysis, PO Box 160207, Sacramento, CA 95816-0207. The DOJ will send a certified Live Scan report within four to six weeks. This report lists all convictions, pending charges, and dispositions in California. If you find errors, you can appeal with a written statement and $15 fee.
Fees, Costs, and Payment Options for Sacramento CA Criminal Records
Getting Sacramento CA criminal records involves different fees depending on the source and type of record. Most online searches are free. Copying documents costs money. The court charges $0.10 per black-and-white page and $0.25 per color page for self-service copies. Clerk-prepared copies cost $0.25 per page. Payment options include cash, credit, or debit at the courthouse. Certified copies for agencies cost $15 per request. The County Office charges $5 per full record package. The California DOJ charges $25 for personal background checks. Private services charge $9.95 per search. Always confirm current fees before submitting a request.
Payment Methods
The Sacramento Superior Court accepts cash, credit, and debit cards at the front counter. Online payments are not available for copy requests. For mailed requests, use a certified check or money order made payable to “Sacramento Superior Court.” The California DOJ only accepts certified checks or money orders. Private sites may accept credit cards or PayPal. Never send cash through the mail.
Fee Waivers and Exceptions
Fee waivers are rare for criminal records. Some low-income individuals may qualify for reduced fees through legal aid programs. Government agencies are not exempt from processing fees. Always check with the specific office before assuming a waiver applies. There are no free certified copies for personal use.
Special Cases: Proposition 47, Proposition 64, and SB-384 Petitions
Sacramento CA criminal records include special programs that allow people to change or reduce past convictions. These are known as Proposition 47 (2015), Proposition 64 (2016), and SB-384 (2021). Each law helps people clear certain non-violent offenses from their record. If you filed a petition under one of these laws, you can track its status online.
Proposition 47: Reducing Felonies to Misdemeanors
Proposition 47 allows certain felony convictions to be reduced to misdemeanors. This includes crimes like shoplifting, forgery, and drug possession. If you filed a PC 1170.18 petition, use the court’s online portal to check status. Enter your case number. The system updates every 24 hours. Processing takes five to seven business days. Once approved, your record will show the reduced charge.
Proposition 64: Marijuana Offense Expungement
Proposition 64 lets people clear past marijuana convictions that are no longer crimes. If you filed an HS 11361.8 petition, track it online with your case number. The court will review and update your record. This can help with jobs, housing, and licenses.
SB-384: Tiered Sex Offender Registration
SB-384 created a tiered system for sex offender registration. Some people may qualify to be removed from the registry. If you filed a petition, check status online. The court processes these requests within one to two weeks. Approved petitions will update your registration status in state databases.
What Information Is Included in Sacramento CA Criminal Records?
Sacramento CA criminal records contain specific details about a person’s legal history. Each record includes the individual’s full legal name, date of birth, and last four digits of their Social Security number. It shows the arrest date, location, and the law enforcement agency involved. Charges are listed with their official code, such as PC 211 for robbery or HS 11357 for marijuana possession. The record also shows the final outcome: dismissed, convicted, deferred, or acquitted. If convicted, it includes sentencing details like jail time, probation, fines, or community service. Some records note active warrants or parole conditions. All copies from the court include the case number, filing date, judge’s name, and the official Sacramento Superior Court seal.
Arrest vs. Conviction
An arrest means someone was taken into custody. A conviction means they were found guilty in court. Not all arrests lead to convictions. Some cases are dismissed or resolved without a guilty verdict. Always check the disposition to know the final outcome. Sacramento CA criminal records show both arrests and convictions, but only convictions affect your permanent record.
Sealed and Expunged Records
Some records may be sealed or expunged by court order. These are not visible to the public. If you believe a record should be removed, consult a lawyer. Private websites may still show old data, even if it’s legally sealed. Only official government sources provide accurate, up-to-date status.
How Long Are Sacramento CA Criminal Records Kept?
Sacramento Superior Court holds physical criminal files for ten calendar days after they arrive. After that, the file is returned to the issuing agency and must be resubmitted if needed. However, digital records in the Public Case Access System remain available indefinitely for cases filed since 1989. The Sheriff’s Office and Police Department keep arrest records for years, depending on the crime. The California DOJ maintains criminal history records for life, unless sealed or expunged. There is no automatic deletion of records. If you want a record removed, you must file a legal petition.
Record Retention by Agency
- Sacramento Superior Court: Digital records since 1989; physical files held 10 days
- Sheriff’s Office: Arrest logs kept for 7+ years; active warrants until resolved
- Police Department: Reports archived for 10+ years; some destroyed after statute of limitations
- California DOJ: Criminal history kept permanently unless sealed
Can You Access Someone Else’s Sacramento CA Criminal Record?
Yes, in most cases. California law allows public access to criminal records unless they are sealed, juvenile, or restricted. You can search for anyone’s record using their name or case number. However, you cannot get certified copies of someone else’s record without their permission or a court order. Private use of records is allowed, but misuse (like discrimination) may violate laws. Employers must follow Fair Credit Reporting Act rules when using records for hiring.
Limitations and Privacy
Some records are not public. Juvenile records are sealed. Records related to domestic violence or sexual assault may have redactions. Active investigations may limit access. Always respect privacy and use records responsibly. Do not share sensitive information online.
Common Reasons People Search for Sacramento CA Criminal Records
People search for Sacramento CA criminal records for many reasons. Employers use them for background checks. Landlords check tenants. Individuals review their own history. Lawyers gather evidence for cases. Researchers study crime trends. Families verify a friend’s safety. Nonprofits screen volunteers. Each use has different rules. Always follow legal guidelines and verify information with official sources.
Employment Background Checks
Employers can request criminal records, but they must comply with California’s Fair Chance Act. This law limits when and how criminal history can affect hiring. Employers must wait until after a conditional job offer and provide a written explanation if they deny employment based on records.
Personal Record Review
Everyone has the right to see their own criminal record. Request a Live Scan report from the DOJ. Review it for errors. If you find mistakes, file an appeal. Correct records help with jobs, housing, and licenses.
Contact Information and Office Hours
For help with Sacramento CA criminal records, contact the following offices:
- Sacramento Superior Court – Criminal Records Front Counter
Phone: 916-874-8881
Address: 720 9th Street, Room 215, Sacramento, CA 95814
Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 am–4:30 pm - Sacramento County Sheriff’s Office – Records Unit
Phone: (916) 874-6220
Website: https://www.sacsheriff.com - California Department of Justice – Record Review
Phone: (916) 227-3849
Address: PO Box 160207, Sacramento, CA 95816-0207
Frequently Asked Questions About Sacramento CA Criminal Records
Many people have questions about accessing, understanding, and using Sacramento CA criminal records. Below are the most common questions with clear, accurate answers based on current laws and procedures. These answers help you navigate the system with confidence and avoid mistakes.
Can I get a free copy of my own criminal record from the Sacramento Superior Court?
No, the Sacramento Superior Court does not provide free certified copies of criminal records, even for personal use. You can view case details for free using the Public Case Access System online, but printed or certified copies always require a fee. For a full criminal history report, you must request a Live Scan from the California Department of Justice. This costs $25 and includes fingerprints. The DOJ report is the only official way to get your complete state criminal record. The court only holds local case files, not statewide histories. Always use certified checks or money orders when mailing payments. Processing takes four to six weeks. If you need a copy for a job or license, start early to avoid delays.
How long does it take to get a criminal record from the Sacramento County Sheriff’s Office?
Most requests to the Sacramento County Sheriff’s Office are processed within 10 business days. If you submit a request in person with valid ID, you may receive basic information the same day. For full arrest reports or booking details, allow up to two weeks. The office updates its online database nightly, so recent arrests appear quickly. However, detailed reports require manual review and redaction for privacy. If your request involves an ongoing investigation, access may be delayed or denied. Always include your full name, date of birth, and case number if known. Fees vary but are usually under $10. For urgent needs, call (916) 874-6220 to check status.
Are juvenile records included in Sacramento CA criminal records searches?
No, juvenile records are not part of public Sacramento CA criminal records searches. California law seals all juvenile court files, arrest records, and probation details. Only judges, attorneys, and authorized agencies can access them. The Public Case Access System, Sheriff’s database, and County Office tools do not show juvenile cases. If a person was tried as an adult, their record may appear, but only from the adult court. Private websites sometimes claim to have juvenile data, but this is illegal and inaccurate. Never rely on unofficial sources for sensitive information. If you believe a juvenile record should be sealed or destroyed, contact a lawyer or the court’s juvenile division.
Can I remove or seal a criminal record in Sacramento County?
Yes, you can petition to seal or reduce a criminal record in Sacramento County, but it depends on the crime and your history. Proposition 47 allows certain felonies to be reduced to misdemeanors. Proposition 64 lets you clear past marijuana convictions. SB-384 helps some sex offenders leave the registry. For other cases, you may qualify for expungement under PC 1203.4 if you completed probation. File your petition at the Sacramento Superior Court, Room 215. Use the correct form and pay any fees. The court will review and schedule a hearing. If approved, your record will show the change. Note: Expungement does not erase the record—it changes its status. Some employers and licenses may still see it. Consult a lawyer for complex cases.
Why can’t I find a criminal record in the Public Case Access System?
If you can’t find a record in the Public Case Access System, it may be due to several reasons. The case might be too old—PCAS only includes filings from 1989 to present. The record could be sealed, expunged, or under a different name or spelling. The case may have been filed in another county or federal court. Arrests without charges do not appear in court records. Always double-check the name, date, and case number. Try variations like middle names or nicknames. If the case is recent, wait 24 hours—the system updates nightly. For missing records, contact the Criminal Records Front Counter at 916-874-8881. They can verify if the file exists and explain access rules.
Can employers use Sacramento CA criminal records to deny a job?
Yes, but with limits. California’s Fair Chance Act restricts how employers use criminal records in hiring. Employers with five or more workers cannot ask about criminal history on job applications. They must wait until after a conditional job offer. If they plan to deny employment based on a record, they must provide a written notice, a copy of the record, and a chance to respond. They must consider the nature of the crime, time passed, and job relevance. Certain jobs, like law enforcement or childcare, have stricter rules. Employers cannot discriminate based on arrests without convictions. Always verify policies with the California Civil Rights Department. If you believe you were unfairly denied a job, you may file a complaint.
How accurate are private criminal record websites for Sacramento County?
Private websites that sell Sacramento CA criminal records are not always accurate. They pull data from public sources but may show outdated, incomplete, or incorrect information. They often include arrests without convictions or fail to update expunged records. Some charge high fees for basic data you can get free from official sites. These services are not regulated and do not guarantee privacy. For legal or employment decisions, always verify with the Sacramento Superior Court, Sheriff’s Office, or California DOJ. Use private sites only for preliminary research. Never rely on them for background checks or official purposes.