Reno Police Department Arrest Records are official documents maintained by the city’s Records Division under Nevada law. These records include arrest logs, incident reports, booking details, and related law enforcement data. Anyone can request these records, but they must follow strict procedures set by state statutes and department policy. The process ensures privacy, accuracy, and compliance with legal standards. Most requests go through an online system, but older records may need direct contact. This page explains how to get arrest records, where to look, fees involved, and what information is available to the public.
How to Request Reno Police Department Arrest Records
To get arrest records from the Reno Police Department, you must submit a formal request. The easiest way is through the official online portal at reno.streamlinegov.us. You’ll need basic details like the person’s full name, date of arrest, or case number. If you don’t have a case number, include as much info as possible to help staff locate the record. Requests made before July 25, 2022, are in the old system and require a phone call or email to the Records Division. Newer requests use the updated digital platform for faster processing.
All requests are reviewed by certified staff who check court orders, state laws, and internal rules before releasing any document. This protects sensitive information and ensures only authorized data is shared. The department does not release records that are sealed, under investigation, or involve minors. Each request gets a tracking number so you can follow its progress. Most standard requests are completed within 5 to 10 business days.
Contact Information and Office Hours
The Records Division answers calls at 775‑334‑2155 ext. 0 during regular business hours: Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. They do not take requests on weekends or holidays. If you visit in person, go to the main police headquarters at 450 Sinclair Street, Reno, NV 89501. Staff will assist with questions but cannot give legal advice or interpret records. For urgent matters like active warrants, call the main line or use the Citizen Suggestion Line at 775‑788‑3800.
Email requests are not accepted for arrest records due to security reasons. All submissions must be made online or by mail with a completed form. Mail should be sent to: Reno Police Department, Records Division, P.O. Box 1900, Reno, NV 89505. Include your name, contact info, and a clear description of the records needed. Payment is required upfront for certified copies.
Fees and Payment Options
There is no fee to search for records, but copying and certification cost money. Standard copies are free for the first two pages. After that, it’s $0.50 per page. Certified copies cost an extra $3.00 each. Payments can be made online with a credit card or by mail using a check or money order made out to “City of Reno.” Cash is only accepted if you visit in person.
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| First 2 pages | Free |
| Each additional page | $0.50 |
| Certified copy | $3.00 |
| Expedited processing | $15.00 |
Reno Justice Court Criminal Division Records
Arrest records often lead to court cases. The Reno Justice Court Criminal Division handles those files. It’s located at 158 North Sierra Street, Reno, NV 89501. You can visit weekdays from 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. or call (775) 325‑6500. They charge $0.50 per printed page and $3.00 for a certified copy. Payments are accepted in cash, credit card, or money order.
You’ll need the case number or defendant’s name to start your search. If you don’t have it, staff can help locate it for a small fee. The court also provides docket entries, charging documents, and bond conditions. These are useful for background checks or legal proceedings. All requests receive a receipt with a transaction ID for tracking.
Washoe County Public Database for Arrest Data
Washoe County offers free online access to police reports, mugshots, and arrest summaries. This includes data from the Reno Police Department and other local agencies. In 2017, there were 9,343 arrests in Reno, with a total crime rate of 375.93 per 1,000 residents. Violent crimes made up 67.36 per 1,000, and property crimes were 308.57 per 1,000.
The database is updated monthly and lets users search by name, booking date, or warrant number. You can view mugshots that have been cleared for public release. Downloadable PDFs of arrest reports are available. Wildlife-related incidents may include statements from the Nevada Department of Wildlife. This resource is ideal for quick background checks or personal research.
County Office Portal for Arrest Records and Mugshots
The County Office portal provides another way to search for Reno arrest records. It’s free and easy to use. Just enter a name, booking date, or warrant number. Results show arrest logs, mugshots, and court docket entries. All data comes directly from law enforcement sources and is updated regularly.
Users can request additional documents like charging papers or bond conditions. The system processes requests Monday through Friday and delivers electronic copies within 72 hours. Each request gets a secure download link. This service follows Nevada Statute 239.070, which makes most arrest records public unless restricted by law.
What Information Is Included in Arrest Records?
Reno Police Department Arrest Records typically include the person’s full name, date of birth, address, physical description, and photo (mugshot). They also list the date, time, and location of the arrest, the arresting officer’s name, charges filed, and case number. Some records show whether the person was released, held, or posted bail.
Not all details are public. Information about victims, ongoing investigations, or juvenile offenders is often redacted or withheld. Medical records, mental health notes, and unproven allegations are not released. Only facts relevant to the arrest and booking are shared with the public.
Legal Basis for Public Access
Nevada Revised Statutes Chapter 239 governs public records access. It says most government documents are open unless specifically exempt. Arrest records fall under this rule because they document official actions by law enforcement. However, privacy protections apply. For example, records involving domestic violence or sexual assault may be partially sealed.
The law also requires agencies to respond to requests within 10 business days. If they deny access, they must explain why in writing. Requesters can appeal to the Nevada Attorney General’s Office if needed. This ensures transparency while protecting individual rights.
Common Reasons People Request Arrest Records
- Background checks for employment or housing
- Legal proceedings or court cases
- Personal safety or due diligence
- Genealogy or family history research
- Journalism or academic studies
Employers often ask for records when hiring for sensitive jobs. Landlords may check before renting. Lawyers use them to prepare defenses or file motions. Individuals might look up their own records to correct errors. Always state your reason when submitting a request—it helps staff process it faster.
How Long Are Arrest Records Kept?
Reno Police Department keeps arrest records indefinitely unless sealed by a judge. Even if charges are dropped or dismissed, the arrest may still appear in public databases. Expungement is possible in some cases, but it requires a court order. Once expunged, the record is removed from public view and treated as if it never existed.
Sealed records are not available to the general public. Only law enforcement, courts, or authorized agencies can access them. If you believe your record should be sealed, consult a lawyer. The process varies based on the charge, outcome, and time passed since the arrest.
Differences Between Arrest Records and Criminal Convictions
An arrest does not mean someone is guilty. It only shows they were taken into custody by police. A conviction happens after a trial or plea deal in court. Arrest records include both cleared and uncleared cases. Criminal histories usually show only convictions.
This distinction matters for jobs, loans, and housing. Many employers run background checks that show arrests. But federal law limits how long they can consider arrests without convictions. Always clarify what type of record you need—arrest log or conviction history.
Online vs. In-Person Requests: Which Is Better?
Online requests are faster and more convenient. You can submit anytime, track progress, and pay electronically. In-person visits allow face-to-face help but take more time. Mail requests are slow and risk getting lost.
For most people, the online portal is best. Use in-person only if you have complex needs or lack internet access. Staff can assist with forms but won’t give legal advice. Choose the method that fits your situation and urgency.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Requesting Records
- Not providing enough identifying information
- Forgetting to pay fees upfront
- Assuming all records are free
- Expecting immediate results
- Using unofficial websites that charge high fees
Always use official city or county sites. Avoid third-party services that promise “instant” records for $50+. They often repackage free data and add markup. Stick to reno.streamlinegov.us or county portals for accurate, low-cost access.
Privacy Concerns and Your Rights
If your arrest record contains errors, you can request a correction. Contact the Records Division with proof, like a court dismissal letter. They will review and update the file if justified. You also have the right to know who accessed your record in the past year.
Be cautious about sharing your own records online. Scammers sometimes pose as employers or landlords to steal personal info. Only send records through secure channels or official portals.
Active Warrants and How to Check
The Reno Police Department does not publish active warrant lists online for safety reasons. But you can call the Citizen Suggestion Line at 775‑788‑3800 to ask if a warrant exists for your name. Operators will not give details over the phone but can direct you to the right court.
To clear a warrant, appear at the Reno Justice Court or contact a lawyer. Certified warrant documents can be ordered through CourtDocs.org for a small fee. These are useful for travel, employment, or immigration purposes.
City of Reno Public Records Portal Transition
The old GovQA portal was discontinued after July 31, 2022. All new requests must go through the updated City Clerk website. If you submitted a request before that date, log in with your original request number to check status. The new system is faster and integrates with the police department’s database.
This change improves security and reduces processing time. Email notifications are sent for every update. The city guarantees a response within 10 business days, as required by Nevada law.
Washoe County Clerk’s Office Search Fees
The Washoe County Clerk’s Office handles civil, criminal, probate, and divorce records. Searches cost $0.50 per name or per year—whichever is cheaper. In-person payments must be cash. Mail requests accept checks or money orders.
The office is open Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Certified copies are mailed overnight after payment. This service covers all of Reno, including ZIP code 89501.
Important Notes About El Reno, Oklahoma
El Reno is a different city in Oklahoma, not Nevada. Its police department is separate and unrelated to Reno, NV. Do not confuse the two. If you’re looking for Nevada records, ignore El Reno links. Always verify the state and jurisdiction before submitting requests.
Final Tips for Successful Record Requests
- Use exact names and dates
- Check if the record is in the legacy system (pre-July 2022)
- Pay fees before submitting
- Keep your tracking number safe
- Follow up if you don’t hear back in 10 days
Most requests are approved quickly. Delays happen if records are incomplete, under review, or involve sensitive cases. Stay patient and polite when contacting staff.
Official Resources Summary
Reno Police Department Records Division: 775‑334‑2155 ext. 0 | reno.streamlinegov.us
Reno Justice Court Criminal Division: (775) 325‑6500 | 158 North Sierra Street, Reno, NV 89501
Washoe County Public Database: Free online access via county portals
City of Reno Public Records: reno.gov/public-records
Frequently Asked Questions
People often have specific questions about accessing arrest records in Reno. Below are detailed answers based on current laws and procedures.
Can I get someone else’s arrest record?
Yes, under Nevada law, most arrest records are public and can be requested by anyone. You don’t need to be related to the person or have a legal reason. However, you must provide enough information—like full name, date of birth, or case number—to help locate the record. The department may redact sensitive details, such as victim names or juvenile information, to protect privacy. If the record is sealed by a judge, it won’t be released. Always use official channels like reno.streamlinegov.us to avoid scams. Third-party sites often charge high fees for the same information that’s free or low-cost through government portals.
How long does it take to receive arrest records?
Most standard requests are processed within 5 to 10 business days. If you pay for expedited service ($15), it may be ready in 2 to 3 days. Requests made before July 25, 2022, are in the legacy system and may take longer—up to 15 business days. The department will email you a tracking number once your request is logged. Use this to check status online. Delays happen if records are incomplete, under investigation, or require legal review. Certified copies take extra time due to notarization. Plan ahead if you need records for court, travel, or employment.
Are mugshots always included in arrest records?
Not always. Mugshots are only released if they’ve been cleared for public display by the Records Division. Some photos are withheld due to ongoing investigations, victim protection, or privacy concerns. If a mugshot is available, it will appear in the Washoe County database or County Office portal. You can also request it directly from the Reno Police Department. There’s no extra fee for the photo itself, but standard copy fees apply. Keep in mind that posting mugshots online can have serious consequences for individuals, even if charges are dropped. Use this information responsibly.
What if my arrest record has wrong information?
You can request a correction by contacting the Records Division with proof, such as a court dismissal letter, acquittal document, or expungement order. Staff will review your evidence and update the record if it’s accurate. If the error is in a court file, you must contact the Reno Justice Court separately. The police department only controls its own logs, not court dispositions. Corrections usually take 7 to 14 days. If your record was sealed or expunged, ask for confirmation that it’s been removed from public databases. Keep copies of all correspondence for your records.
Do I need a lawyer to get arrest records?
No, you don’t need a lawyer to request public arrest records. Anyone can submit a request online, by mail, or in person. However, a lawyer may be helpful if you’re dealing with sealed records, expungement, or complex legal issues. They can also help interpret records for court cases or employment disputes. For simple background checks or personal use, official city and county portals are sufficient. Avoid hiring “record retrieval services” that charge excessive fees—they often repackage free government data. Stick to trusted sources like reno.streamlinegov.us or the Washoe County Clerk’s Office.
Are arrest records the same as criminal convictions?
No. An arrest record shows that someone was taken into custody by police. It does not prove guilt. A criminal conviction only happens after a trial, plea deal, or guilty verdict in court. Arrest records include both cleared and uncleared cases. Criminal histories typically show only convictions. This difference is crucial for jobs, housing, and loans. Many employers run background checks that show arrests, but federal guidelines limit how long they can consider arrests without convictions. Always clarify which type of record you need—arrest log or conviction history—when making a request.
Can I check if there’s an active warrant for my name?
Yes, but not online. The Reno Police Department does not publish active warrant lists for safety reasons. Call the Citizen Suggestion Line at 775‑788‑3800 to ask if a warrant exists for your name. Operators will not give details over the phone but can direct you to the appropriate court. To get certified warrant documents, use CourtDocs.org for a small fee. These are useful for travel, employment, or immigration. If you have a warrant, appear at the Reno Justice Court or contact a lawyer immediately. Ignoring a warrant can lead to arrest or additional charges.