St. Charles County Arrest Records
Are Arrest Records Public in St. Charles County
Arrest records in St. Charles County are considered public information under the Missouri Sunshine Law, specifically pursuant to § 610.011 RSMo. This statute establishes that all records maintained by governmental bodies shall be open to the public unless otherwise provided by law. The Missouri Sunshine Law operates under the presumption that records are open, placing the burden on the government to justify closure of any public record.
It is important for members of the public to understand the distinction between arrest records and conviction records. An arrest record documents that an individual was taken into custody by law enforcement based on probable cause that they committed a crime. A conviction record, by contrast, indicates that the individual was found guilty of a crime through the judicial process. Under Missouri law, both types of records are generally accessible to the public, though certain exceptions may apply.
The St. Charles County Sheriff's Department maintains arrest records in accordance with state regulations and the Missouri State Highway Patrol's Criminal Justice Information Services Division policies. While most arrest information is public, certain details may be redacted to protect ongoing investigations or personal identifying information as provided under § 610.021 RSMo.
What's in St. Charles County Arrest Records
St. Charles County arrest records contain comprehensive information about individuals who have been taken into police custody. These official documents typically include the following categories of information:
Arrestee Identifying Information:
- Full legal name (first, middle, last)
- Date of birth
- Gender
- Race/ethnicity
- Physical description (height, weight, eye color, hair color)
- Identifying marks (tattoos, scars, etc.)
- Address at time of arrest
- Photograph (mugshot)
- Fingerprints
Arrest Details:
- Date and time of arrest
- Location of arrest
- Arresting agency
- Arresting officer's name and badge number
- Reason for arrest
- Whether force was used during arrest
Charge Information:
- Criminal charges filed
- Statute numbers of alleged violations
- Charge classification (felony, misdemeanor, infraction)
- Charge description
- Case numbers
Warrant Information (if applicable):
- Warrant number
- Issuing court
- Date issued
- Type of warrant
Booking Information:
- Booking date and time
- Booking facility
- Booking officer
- Property inventory
Bond/Bail Information:
- Bond amount
- Bond type
- Bond status (posted, denied, etc.)
- Release conditions
Court Information:
- Court of jurisdiction
- Scheduled court appearances
- Case disposition (if resolved)
Custody Status:
- Current detention status
- Facility of incarceration (if applicable)
- Expected release date (if applicable)
Additional Information May Include:
- Prior arrest history
- Known aliases
- Vehicle information related to arrest
- Witness information (may be redacted)
- Victim information (typically redacted)
- Narrative reports from arresting officers
The specific content of arrest records may vary based on the arresting agency's protocols and the circumstances of the arrest. Pursuant to § 610.100 RSMo, certain information may be redacted to protect privacy rights, ongoing investigations, or juvenile records.
How To Look Up Arrest Records in St. Charles County in 2026
Members of the public seeking arrest records in St. Charles County may utilize several official channels to obtain this information. The following procedures are currently in effect for accessing arrest records:
- Visit the St. Charles County Sheriff's Department in person:
St. Charles County Sheriff's Department
101 Sheriff Dierker Court
O'Fallon, MO 63366
(636) 949-3000
St. Charles County Sheriff's Department
Individuals may complete a records request form at the public counter, which is open Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, excluding holidays. Valid government-issued photo identification is required when requesting records in person.
- Submit a written request by mail:
Written requests must include:
- Full name of the subject of the record search
- Date of birth and/or approximate date of incident
- Type of incident or report number (if known)
- Requestor's contact information
- Copy of requestor's government-issued photo ID
- Check or money order for applicable fees
- Request records through the St. Charles County Prosecuting Attorney's Office:
St. Charles County Prosecuting Attorney's Office
300 N. Second Street, Suite 601
St. Charles, MO 63301
(636) 949-7355
St. Charles County Prosecuting Attorney
- Access records through the St. Charles County Circuit Clerk:
St. Charles County Circuit Clerk
300 N. Second Street
St. Charles, MO 63301
(636) 949-3080
St. Charles County Circuit Clerk
- Submit a request under the Missouri Sunshine Law:
Formal requests citing the Missouri Sunshine Law should be directed to the Custodian of Records at the relevant agency. Pursuant to § 610.023 RSMo, agencies must respond to Sunshine Law requests within three business days.
Fees for record searches and copies are established in accordance with § 610.026 RSMo. Currently, fees may include:
- Search/research fee: $10.00 per name/incident
- Copy fee: $0.10 per page
- Certified copy fee: $2.00 per document
- Electronic media fee: $5.00 per CD/DVD
How To Find St. Charles County Arrest Records Online
St. Charles County provides several digital resources for accessing arrest records electronically. The following online platforms are currently available for conducting arrest record searches:
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St. Charles County Sheriff's Department Inmate Lookup: The Sheriff's Department maintains an online inmate search portal that provides information on currently incarcerated individuals. This database is updated regularly and includes basic arrest information, charges, and custody status.
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Missouri Automated Criminal History Site (MACHS): The Missouri State Highway Patrol maintains this statewide system for criminal history record checks. Users must register an account and pay the required fee for each search. MACHS provides comprehensive criminal history information, including arrests and dispositions.
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Missouri Case.net: The Missouri Courts Case Management System allows users to search for court cases by name, which often includes information about arrests that led to court proceedings. This system covers all Missouri circuit courts, including St. Charles County.
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St. Charles County Prosecuting Attorney's Case Search: The Prosecuting Attorney's Office provides an online case search tool for tracking cases that have been filed with the court.
When conducting online searches, users should note that:
- Some systems require registration and/or payment
- Not all arrest records may be available online
- Recent arrests may not appear immediately in databases
- Certain sensitive cases may be restricted from public online access
- Information obtained online should be verified through official channels
Online access to arrest records is governed by the same laws and regulations that apply to physical records, including the Missouri Sunshine Law and relevant privacy protections under § 610.021 RSMo.
How To Search St. Charles County Arrest Records for Free?
Members of the public have several options for accessing St. Charles County arrest records without incurring fees. The following methods are currently available for conducting free arrest record searches:
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Missouri Case.net Public Access: The Missouri Courts' public access system provides free searches of court cases, including criminal cases stemming from arrests. Users can search by name to locate cases filed in St. Charles County Circuit Court without creating an account or paying fees.
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St. Charles County Sheriff's Department Website: The Sheriff's Department maintains a current inmate roster on their official website that can be accessed without charge. This resource provides basic information about individuals currently in custody.
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Public Access Terminals at Government Offices: Free public access terminals are available at the following locations:
St. Charles County Law Library
300 N. Second Street, Room 10
St. Charles, MO 63301
(636) 949-3083
St. Charles County Law Library
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM
St. Charles County Circuit Clerk's Office
300 N. Second Street
St. Charles, MO 63301
(636) 949-3080
St. Charles County Circuit Clerk
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Local Public Libraries: Several St. Charles County public libraries offer free access to public records databases. Library staff can assist patrons with navigating these resources:
St. Charles City-County Library District - Spencer Road Branch
427 Spencer Road
St. Peters, MO 63376
(636) 441-0522
St. Charles City-County Library
- Media Reports and Police Blotters: Local newspapers and news websites often publish arrest information based on police reports. The St. Charles County Police Blotter is updated regularly with recent arrest information.
When utilizing free resources, individuals should be aware that:
- Information may be limited compared to official record requests
- Recent arrests may not be immediately available
- Some case details may be restricted from public view
- Free resources typically do not provide certified copies needed for official purposes
Pursuant to § 610.011 RSMo, while basic arrest record information is available without charge, agencies may assess reasonable fees for extensive searches, document reproduction, or certified copies.
How To Delete Arrest Records in St. Charles County
The process of removing arrest records from public access in St. Charles County involves either expungement (legal erasure) or sealing (restricting public access). These distinct legal remedies are governed by Missouri state law, specifically § 610.140 RSMo for expungements.
Expungement Eligibility: Under current Missouri law, individuals may petition for expungement if:
- At least three years have passed since the completion of any sentence or probation for a misdemeanor
- At least seven years have passed since the completion of any sentence or probation for a felony
- The arrest did not result in a conviction (waiting periods may still apply)
- The offense is eligible for expungement under § 610.140 RSMo
- The petitioner has no subsequent misdemeanor or felony convictions
- The petitioner has satisfied all financial obligations related to the case
Sealing Eligibility: Certain records may be eligible for sealing rather than expungement, particularly:
- Juvenile records under § 211.321 RSMo
- Records related to cases where charges were dismissed
- Arrest records where no charges were filed after the statute of limitations expired
Expungement Process:
- Obtain a complete criminal history report from the Missouri State Highway Patrol
- File a Petition for Expungement with the circuit court in the county where the arrest occurred:
St. Charles County Circuit Court
300 N. Second Street
St. Charles, MO 63301
(636) 949-3080
St. Charles County Circuit Court
- Pay the filing fee (currently $250, though fee waivers may be available)
- Serve copies of the petition on all agencies holding records
- Attend the expungement hearing scheduled by the court
- If granted, obtain certified copies of the expungement order
- Distribute the order to all agencies holding records
Effect of Expungement: When an expungement is granted, pursuant to § 610.140 RSMo:
- The arrest is deemed never to have occurred
- The person may answer "no" to questions about the arrest on applications
- The records are removed from public access
- Law enforcement and courts retain confidential access to the records
- Certain employers (including those in healthcare, education, and law enforcement) may still have access to expunged records
Legal assistance is strongly recommended for navigating the expungement process. The Missouri Bar Association provides referrals to attorneys specializing in expungement law.
What Happens After Arrest in St. Charles County?
Following an arrest in St. Charles County, individuals enter a structured criminal justice process governed by Missouri state law and local court procedures. This process typically progresses through the following stages:
- Booking and Processing: Upon arrest, individuals are transported to the St. Charles County Department of Corrections for booking, which includes:
- Photographing (mugshot)
- Fingerprinting
- Personal information collection
- Medical screening
- Property inventory
- Initial criminal history check
St. Charles County Department of Corrections
301 N. Second Street
St. Charles, MO 63301
(636) 949-3173
St. Charles County Department of Corrections
- Initial Appearance/Arraignment: Within 48 hours of arrest, defendants appear before a judge at the St. Charles County Circuit Court for:
- Formal reading of charges
- Advisement of constitutional rights
- Bond determination
- Appointment of counsel if indigent
- Entry of initial plea
- Bond Consideration: The court determines whether the defendant may be released pending trial based on:
- Nature and severity of the alleged offense
- Prior criminal history
- Community ties and flight risk
- Public safety considerations
- Recommendations from the St. Charles County Pretrial Services
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Preliminary Hearing (Felonies Only): For felony cases, a preliminary hearing may be held to determine if probable cause exists to believe the defendant committed the crime. This hearing must occur within a reasonable time after the initial appearance.
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Formal Charging: The St. Charles County Prosecuting Attorney's Office reviews the case and determines whether to:
- File formal charges
- Modify the initial charges
- Decline prosecution
- Refer for diversion programs
- Discovery Process: Both prosecution and defense exchange evidence, including:
- Police reports
- Witness statements
- Physical evidence
- Expert reports
- Video/audio recordings
- Pre-Trial Motions: Attorneys may file motions addressing:
- Evidence suppression
- Case dismissal
- Change of venue
- Other procedural matters
- Plea Negotiations: The prosecution and defense may negotiate a resolution that could include:
- Guilty plea to original charges
- Guilty plea to reduced charges
- Diversion program participation
- Case dismissal
- Trial: If no plea agreement is reached, the case proceeds to trial, which may be:
- Bench trial (judge only)
- Jury trial (12 jurors for felonies, 6 for misdemeanors)
- Sentencing: Upon conviction, sentencing may include:
- Incarceration
- Probation
- Fines and costs
- Restitution
- Community service
- Treatment programs
- Post-Conviction: Following conviction, defendants may pursue:
- Appeal to higher courts
- Post-conviction relief
- Probation violation hearings (if applicable)
Throughout this process, defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt, as guaranteed by the U.S. Constitution and Missouri law.
How Long Are Arrest Records Kept in St. Charles County?
Arrest records in St. Charles County are maintained according to retention schedules established by the Missouri Secretary of State's Records Services Division and governed by § 109.255 RSMo - Law Enforcement Records Retention. These schedules mandate specific timeframes for preserving various categories of law enforcement records.
Under current Missouri law, the standard retention periods for arrest records are:
- Felony arrest records: Permanent retention
- Misdemeanor arrest records: Minimum 5-year retention after case disposition
- Infraction arrest records: Minimum 3-year retention after case disposition
- Arrest records where no charges were filed: Minimum 3-year retention
Different agencies within St. Charles County maintain separate record systems with varying retention requirements:
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St. Charles County Sheriff's Department: The Sheriff's Department maintains arrest records, booking information, and investigative files according to the state-mandated schedule. Arrest records related to serious felonies (homicide, sexual assault, etc.) are permanently retained.
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St. Charles County Prosecuting Attorney's Office: Case files maintained by the Prosecutor's Office typically follow these retention periods:
- Felony cases: Permanent retention
- Misdemeanor cases: 10-year retention after case closure
- Infraction cases: 3-year retention after case closure
- St. Charles County Circuit Court: Court records related to criminal cases follow the Missouri Supreme Court's records retention schedule:
- Felony case records: Permanent retention
- Misdemeanor case records: 10-year retention after case closure
- Municipal ordinance violations: 3-year retention after case closure
- Missouri State Highway Patrol: The Criminal Justice Information Services Division maintains the central repository of criminal history information for the state, including St. Charles County arrests. These records are generally maintained permanently unless expunged by court order.
The extended retention of arrest records serves several important public purposes:
- Preserves evidence for potential future legal proceedings
- Supports law enforcement investigations of related crimes
- Provides accountability and transparency in the criminal justice system
- Maintains historical documentation for statistical and research purposes
- Ensures availability of records for background checks authorized by law
It is important to note that while records may be maintained for extended periods, access to these records may be restricted based on:
- Age of the record
- Disposition of the case
- Statutory confidentiality provisions
- Court orders sealing or expunging records
- Agency policies on public disclosure
How to Find Mugshots in St. Charles County
What Mugshots Are
Mugshots, also known as booking photographs, are official photographs taken during the booking process following an arrest. These images serve as visual identification records within the criminal justice system. In St. Charles County, mugshots are typically taken at the St. Charles County Department of Corrections facility as part of the standard booking procedure.
Where Mugshots Are Maintained
Mugshots taken in St. Charles County are primarily maintained by:
St. Charles County Sheriff's Department
101 Sheriff Dierker Court
O'Fallon, MO 63366
(636) 949-3000
St. Charles County Sheriff's Department
St. Charles County Department of Corrections
301 N. Second Street
St. Charles, MO 63301
(636) 949-3173
St. Charles County Department of Corrections
These photographs are stored in departmental records management systems and may be shared with other law enforcement agencies through the Missouri Uniform Law Enforcement System (MULES).
Finding Mugshots
Members of the public seeking mugshots in St. Charles County have several options:
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Submit a formal records request to the St. Charles County Sheriff's Department Records Division. Requests must:
- Be made in writing
- Include the full name and date of birth of the subject
- Provide approximate date of arrest
- Include requestor's contact information
- Be accompanied by applicable fees
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Visit the Sheriff's Department in person during regular business hours (Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM) to complete a records request form.
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Submit a Missouri Sunshine Law request citing § 610.011 RSMo, which establishes the presumption that records are open to the public.
Can Mugshots Be Found Online
The availability of mugshots online through official St. Charles County sources is limited. Currently:
- The St. Charles County Sheriff's Department does not maintain a public-facing mugshot database
- The county's inmate lookup system provides basic information but typically does not display mugshots
- The Missouri State Highway Patrol does not provide public online access to mugshots
Some third-party websites may publish mugshots obtained through public records requests, but these sources are not officially affiliated with St. Charles County law enforcement agencies and may contain outdated or inaccurate information.
Obtaining Mugshots Officially
To obtain official copies of mugshots, individuals should:
- Complete the St. Charles County Sheriff's Department Records Request Form
- Provide proper identification
- Pay the established fee (currently $5.00 per photograph)
- Allow 3-5 business days for processing
Restrictions on Mugshot Access
Access to mugshots in St. Charles County may be restricted under certain circumstances:
- Juvenile arrest records (under age 17) are generally confidential under § 211.321 RSMo
- Records related to ongoing investigations may be temporarily withheld
- Mugshots related to sexual assault cases may have restricted access
- Expunged arrest records and associated mugshots are removed from public access
- Records sealed by court order are not available to the public
Law enforcement agencies balance the public's right to information with privacy considerations and the presumption of innocence when determining mugshot release policies.
Lookup Arrest Records in St. Charles County
Missouri Department of Corrections Offender Search