Alaska Arrest Records

Alaska Public Records /Alaska Arrest Records

Are Arrest Records Public in Alaska?

Yes. Arrest records in Alaska are generally classified as public records under the Alaska Public Records Act (AS 40.25.110–40.25.295), which guarantees citizens the right to inspect public records maintained by state agencies. However, the extent of access depends on the type of record and the requesting party.

The Alaska Department of Public Safety (DPS), Criminal Records and Identification (R&I) Bureau is the state’s central repository for criminal history information, including arrest records. These records can be released to the public in certain circumstances, but with significant limitations.

What Law Governs Access to Arrest Records in Alaska?

Access to arrest records in Alaska is primarily governed by the Alaska Public Records Act (AS 40.25.110-40.25.125), which establishes the framework for public access to government records. This law operates under the principle that public records should be accessible to citizens to ensure governmental transparency and accountability.

Other relevant laws and regulations that impact access to arrest records in Alaska include:

Alaska Criminal Rules of Procedure, which govern court proceedings related to criminal cases
Alaska Court Rules on Administration, which establish procedures for court record management
Alaska Statutes Title 12 (Code of Criminal Procedure), which outlines criminal procedures in the state
Alaska Statutes Title 47, Chapter 12 regarding juvenile justice, which provides special protections for juvenile records
Alaska Administrative Code Title 13, Chapter 68 regarding criminal justice information and records

The Department of Public Safety regulations further define the procedures for requesting and obtaining criminal history information, including arrest records. These regulations establish the proper channels for record requests, applicable fees, and restrictions on access to certain types of information.

What Information Is Included in an Alaska Arrest Record?

Alaska arrest records typically contain comprehensive information about an individual's encounter with law enforcement. These records serve as official documentation of arrests and may include the following details:

Personal identifying information:
- Full legal name
- Date of birth
- Physical description (height, weight, eye color, hair color)
- Fingerprints
- Photograph (mugshot)
- Address at time of arrest
- Social Security Number (often partially redacted in public versions)
Arrest information:
- Date and time of arrest
- Location of arrest
- Arresting agency
- Name and badge number of arresting officer(s)
- Booking number
- Charges filed at arrest
- Statutory citations for alleged violations
Case processing information:
- Court case number
- Arraignment date
- Bail or bond information
- Court appearances
- Case disposition (if resolved)
- Sentencing information (if convicted)
Additional details:
- Property seized during arrest
- Vehicle information (if relevant)
- Witness information (may be redacted in public versions)
- Narrative description of the incident

The level of detail available in publicly accessible arrest records may be limited compared to what law enforcement agencies maintain in their internal systems. Certain sensitive information is typically redacted from public versions to protect privacy rights and the integrity of investigations.

How To Obtain Arrest Records in Alaska in 2025

Obtaining arrest records in Alaska involves following specific procedures established by various state agencies. As of 2025, individuals seeking arrest records can use several methods:

In-person requests: Visit the appropriate agency during business hours to submit a request form. Bring valid government-issued photo identification.
Mail requests: Submit a completed request form along with required identification documents and applicable fees to the appropriate agency.
Online requests: Some agencies offer online portals for requesting certain types of records.

The primary agencies that maintain and provide access to arrest records in Alaska include:

Alaska Department of Public Safety (DPS)
5700 East Tudor Road
Anchorage, AK 99507
(907) 269-5511
Alaska Department of Public Safety

To request records from DPS, you must complete the Criminal Justice Information Request Form and submit it with the required fee.

Alaska Court System
820 West 4th Avenue
Anchorage, AK 99501
(907) 264-0514
Alaska Court System

Court records, including case information related to arrests, can be accessed through the CourtView system or by visiting the courthouse where the case was filed.

Alaska Department of Corrections
550 West 7th Avenue, Suite 1800
Anchorage, AK 99501
(907) 269-7400
Alaska Department of Corrections

For records related to incarceration following an arrest, contact the Department of Corrections directly.

When requesting arrest records, be prepared to provide:

The full name of the person whose record you're seeking
Date of birth
Approximate date of arrest (if known)
Case number (if known)
Your contact information
Reason for the request
Proof of identity

Processing times vary depending on the agency and the complexity of the request, typically ranging from a few days to several weeks.

How to Find Arrest Records Online in Alaska

Alaska offers several online resources for accessing arrest records and related information. These digital platforms provide convenient alternatives to in-person or mail requests. As of 2025, the following online systems are available:

Alaska CourtView Public Access
CourtView is the Alaska Court System's online portal that allows users to search for court cases, including criminal cases resulting from arrests. The system provides case numbers, charges, hearing dates, and case dispositions. While not a comprehensive arrest database, it offers valuable information about court proceedings related to arrests.
Alaska Department of Public Safety Records Search
The Department of Public Safety offers online background check services that include certain arrest information. Users must register for an account and pay applicable fees to access these records.
Alaska Department of Corrections Offender Search
The DOC Offender Search allows users to search for individuals currently in custody or under supervision. While this doesn't provide complete arrest records, it confirms if someone is in custody following an arrest.
Municipality of Anchorage Police Department
The Anchorage Police Department provides limited online access to recent arrest information and police reports for incidents within city limits.

When using these online systems, be aware of the following limitations:

Not all arrest records are available online
Some systems require registration and fees
Information may be limited compared to official record requests
Older records may not be digitized
Certain sensitive or sealed records are excluded from online access

For the most comprehensive and accurate information, combining online searches with formal record requests to the appropriate agencies is recommended.

Who Can Access Arrest Records in Alaska?

Access to arrest records in Alaska varies depending on the requester's identity and purpose. The state's public records laws establish different levels of access for various categories of individuals and organizations:

General Public:
- Can access basic arrest record information
- Subject to redactions of sensitive information
- May face restrictions for juvenile records, sealed cases, or ongoing investigations
- Must follow formal request procedures and pay applicable fees
The Arrested Individual:
- Has right to access their own complete arrest records
- May need to provide proof of identity
- Can obtain unredacted versions of their records
- May use records for personal review, legal proceedings, or correction of errors
Law Enforcement Agencies:
- Have comprehensive access to arrest records
- Can view complete, unredacted information
- May access records across jurisdictions through information-sharing networks
- Use records for investigations, background checks, and official duties
Criminal Justice Agencies:
- Courts, prosecutors, public defenders, and corrections departments have broad access
- Can view detailed arrest information for case processing
- Access is governed by criminal procedure rules and information-sharing agreements
Government Agencies:
- Non-criminal justice agencies may have limited access for specific purposes
- Access level depends on statutory authority and need-to-know basis
- May include licensing boards, child protection services, and regulatory bodies
Employers and Licensing Bodies:
- May access records for background checks with proper authorization
- Subject to restrictions under Alaska Statute 12.62.160
- Must follow procedures for lawful employment screening
- Limited to conviction information in many cases
Researchers and Media:
- May access records for statistical analysis or reporting
- Often receive anonymized or aggregated data
- Subject to same public access rules with potential exemptions for research purposes
Private Background Check Companies:
- Must comply with state and federal laws regarding record use
- Subject to Fair Credit Reporting Act requirements
- May only report certain arrest information for specified time periods

Access to arrest records is further governed by the Criminal Justice Information Security Policy which establishes safeguards for handling criminal justice information.

Are There Fees for Obtaining Arrest Records in Alaska?

Yes, obtaining arrest records in Alaska typically involves fees that vary depending on the type of record requested, the agency providing the record, and the method of request. These fees help cover the administrative costs associated with processing record requests, including staff time, document reproduction, and record maintenance.

As of 2025, the standard fees for arrest records in Alaska include:

Alaska Department of Public Safety

Name-based criminal history check: $20 per name
Fingerprint-based criminal history check: $35
Certified records: Additional $5 per certification
Notarized records: Additional $5 per notarization

Alaska Court System

Court case search: $5 per name
Case document copies: $5 for the first page, $0.50 for each additional page
Certified court documents: $10 per certification
Electronic access subscription (CourtView): Varies based on usage level

Local Police Departments

Police report copies: $10-$25 (varies by department)
Incident report copies: $5-$15 (varies by department)
Certified copies: Additional $5-$10

Alaska Department of Corrections

Inmate records: $15 per record
Certified copies: Additional $5

Payment methods accepted typically include:

Credit/debit cards (for online and in-person requests)
Money orders (for mail requests)
Cashier's checks (for mail requests)
Cash (for in-person requests only)

Fee waivers or reductions may be available in certain circumstances:

Indigent individuals may qualify for fee waivers with proper documentation
Government agencies may be exempt from fees for official purposes
Non-profit research organizations may qualify for reduced fees
Individuals seeking their own records for employment or housing purposes may qualify for reduced fees

It's advisable to contact the specific agency before submitting a request to confirm current fee schedules and payment options, as these may change over time.

How Long Are Arrest Records Kept in Alaska

Alaska maintains arrest records for extended periods, following specific retention schedules established by state law and agency policies. These retention periods ensure that criminal justice information remains available for legitimate purposes while balancing privacy concerns.

The retention periods for arrest records in Alaska vary based on several factors:

Standard Retention Periods:

Felony arrest records: Permanent retention
Misdemeanor arrest records: Minimum of 75 years
Violation arrest records: Minimum of 50 years
Juvenile arrest records: Until the individual reaches age 21, then subject to special rules

Record Type-Specific Retention:

Fingerprint cards: Permanent retention
Booking photographs: Minimum of 75 years
Arrest reports: Minimum of 75 years for felonies, 50 years for misdemeanors
DNA samples (for qualifying offenses): Permanent retention unless expunged by court order

The Alaska Department of Public Safety maintains the central repository for criminal history information, including arrest records, in accordance with Alaska Statute 12.62 and the Alaska Administrative Code Title 13, Chapter 68.

The Alaska Court System maintains court records related to arrests according to the Alaska Court Records Retention Schedule, which generally aligns with the retention periods for the underlying arrest records.

Local law enforcement agencies typically follow similar retention schedules but may have agency-specific policies that extend or modify these timeframes for their internal records.

Even after the official retention period expires, information about arrests may persist in various databases, news archives, and private background check companies. Additionally, technological advancements in digital storage have made it increasingly feasible for agencies to maintain records indefinitely, even beyond the required retention periods.

What Information Is Redacted or Restricted in Alaska Arrest Records?

When arrest records are released to the public in Alaska, certain types of information are typically redacted or restricted to protect privacy, maintain the integrity of investigations, and comply with state and federal laws. Understanding these redactions is important for those seeking arrest records.

The following categories of information are commonly redacted or restricted in Alaska arrest records:

Personal Identifying Information:

Social Security Numbers
Driver's license numbers
Financial account information
Date of birth (may be partially redacted)
Home addresses of victims and witnesses
Phone numbers and email addresses
Medical information and health records

Sensitive Case Information:

Names of sexual assault victims (per Alaska Statute 12.61.140)
Information about confidential informants
Juvenile suspect information (per Alaska Statute 47.12.300)
Child abuse victim information
Details that could compromise ongoing investigations
Grand jury proceedings (per Alaska Rule of Criminal Procedure 6)

Law Enforcement Sensitive Information:

Undercover officer identities
Tactical information about law enforcement methods
Security procedures and protocols
Information that could endanger officer safety

Other Protected Information:

Mental health evaluations
Substance abuse treatment information (protected under federal 42 CFR Part 2)
Information sealed by court order
Expunged record information
Information protected by attorney-client privilege
Certain domestic violence case details

The extent of redaction may vary depending on:

Who is requesting the record (the subject of the record typically has greater access)
The age of the record
The status of related court proceedings
Whether the case involves minors
Specific court orders regarding the case

The Alaska Public Records Act provides specific exemptions from disclosure, and agencies must balance the public's right to information with privacy protections and the integrity of the criminal justice system when processing record requests.

How To Seal or Destroy Arrest Records in Alaska

In Alaska, individuals may have options to seal or set aside certain arrest records under specific circumstances. This process, while not technically "expungement" as available in some other states, can limit public access to arrest information. The procedures for sealing or setting aside records are governed by Alaska statutes and court rules.

Sealing Juvenile Records:

Under Alaska Statute 47.12.300, juvenile records are generally confidential. Additionally:

The court may order juvenile records sealed if:
- Five years have passed since the juvenile court's jurisdiction ended
- No criminal proceedings are pending against the person
- The person has not been convicted of a felony or serious misdemeanor
- The person has demonstrated rehabilitation
To request sealing of juvenile records:
- File a petition with the court that handled the juvenile case
- Provide evidence of rehabilitation
- Attend a hearing if scheduled by the court

Setting Aside Convictions:

Alaska law provides limited options for setting aside convictions under Alaska Statute 12.55.085:

For suspended imposition of sentence (SIS) cases:
- If the court imposed probation rather than a sentence
- The person successfully completed probation
- The court may set aside the conviction and dismiss the case
- This applies primarily to first-time offenders
Process for setting aside SIS convictions:
- File a motion with the court that handled the case
- Provide evidence of successful completion of probation
- Request a hearing if necessary

Sealing Records of Acquittals or Dismissed Charges:

Under Alaska Court Rules of Administration 40:

Records may be sealed if:
- The case resulted in acquittal or dismissal
- The person files a request with the court
- The court finds that the public interest in disclosure is outweighed by the privacy interest
Process for sealing these records:
- File a motion with the appropriate court
- Provide justification for sealing
- Attend a hearing if scheduled

Pardons:

The Alaska Governor has constitutional authority to grant pardons under Article III, Section 21:

A pardon does not erase the record but may restore certain rights
Applications are submitted to the Alaska Board of Parole
The process is highly discretionary and pardons are rarely granted

Important Considerations:

Even sealed records may remain accessible to law enforcement agencies
Federal agencies may still maintain records of arrests
Private background check companies may have obtained information before sealing
Some professional licensing boards and government employers may have access to sealed records
The process can be complex and may benefit from legal assistance

For assistance with sealing records, individuals may contact:

Alaska Legal Services Corporation
1016 West 6th Avenue, Suite 200
Anchorage, AK 99501
(907) 272-9431
Alaska Legal Services Corporation

What Are the Limitations on the Use of Arrest Records in Alaska?

Alaska law imposes several important limitations on how arrest records can be used, particularly in employment, housing, and other contexts. These restrictions aim to balance public safety interests with individual rights and opportunities for rehabilitation.

Employment Limitations:

Under Alaska Statute 12.62.160, employers face restrictions when using arrest records:

Employers may not inquire about or consider arrests that did not result in conviction
Employers must have a legitimate business purpose related to the specific position
Public employers must establish that a conviction directly relates to the position
Certain licensed professions have specific statutory requirements regarding criminal history

Additionally, employers must comply with federal Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) guidance, which requires:

Individualized assessment of criminal records
Consideration of time elapsed since the offense
Consideration of the nature of the offense and its relation to the job

Housing Limitations:

Housing providers in Alaska must follow these guidelines:

Public housing authorities follow HUD guidelines on criminal background checks
Landlords must have legitimate, non-discriminatory reasons for criminal background policies
Blanket bans on all individuals with criminal records may violate fair housing laws
Housing providers should consider the nature, severity, and recency of criminal conduct

Educational Limitations:

Educational institutions in Alaska have limitations on using arrest records:

K-12 schools have specific background check requirements for employees under Alaska Statute 14.20.020
Higher education institutions typically cannot deny admission based solely on arrest records without conviction
Student disciplinary proceedings must follow due process requirements

Financial and Insurance Limitations:

Financial institutions must follow federal regulations regarding criminal background checks
Insurance companies have limited ability to use arrest records without conviction for underwriting
Credit reporting agencies must comply with the Fair Credit Reporting Act

General Prohibitions:

Alaska law prohibits:

Using sealed or set-aside records for any purpose
Discriminating based on expunged or pardoned offenses
Using arrest records in a manner that has a disparate impact on protected classes
Misrepresenting the content of criminal records

Penalties for Misuse:

Misuse of arrest records can result in:

Civil liability under state privacy laws
Administrative penalties from regulatory agencies
Loss of professional licenses or certifications
Potential discrimination claims under state and federal law

Individuals who believe their arrest records have been misused may file complaints with the Alaska State Commission for Human Rights or seek legal counsel for potential civil remedies.

Lookup Arrest Records in Alaska

State Repository for Criminal History Records
Alaska Department of Public Safety
5700 East Tudor Road
Anchorage, AK 99507
(907) 269-5511
Alaska Department of Public Safety

Alaska State Troopers
5700 East Tudor Road
Anchorage, AK 99507
(907) 269-5511
Alaska State Troopers

Alaska Department of Corrections
550 West 7th Avenue, Suite 1800
Anchorage, AK 99501
(907) 269-7400
Alaska Department of Corrections

Alaska Court System
820 West 4th Avenue
Anchorage, AK 99501
(907) 264-0514
Alaska Court System

Alaska Supreme Court
303 K Street
Anchorage, AK 99501
(907) 264-0612
Alaska Supreme Court

Alaska Court of Appeals
303 K Street
Anchorage, AK 99501
(907) 264-0612
Alaska Court of Appeals

Alaska Department of Law
1031 West 4th Avenue, Suite 200
Anchorage, AK 99501
(907) 269-5100
Alaska Department of Law

Municipal Police Departments:

Anchorage Police Department
716 West 4th Avenue
Anchorage, AK 99501
(907) 786-8500
Anchorage Police Department

Fairbanks Police Department
911 Cushman Street
Fairbanks, AK 99701
(907) 450-6500
Fairbanks Police Department

Juneau Police Department
6255 Alaway Avenue
Juneau, AK 99801
(907) 586-0600
Juneau Police Department

Wasilla Police Department
1800 East Parks Highway
Wasilla, AK 99654
(907) 352-5400
Wasilla Police Department

Kenai Police Department
107 South Willow Street
Kenai, AK 99611
(907) 283-7879
Kenai Police Department

Kodiak Police Department
217 Lower Mill Bay Road
Kodiak, AK 99615
(907) 486-8000
Kodiak Police Department

Sitka Police Department
304 Lake Street
Sitka, AK 99835
(907) 747-3245
Sitka Police Department

Alaska State Archives
395 Whittier Street
Juneau, AK 99801
(907) 465-2270
Alaska State Archives

Alaska State Library
395 Whittier Street
Juneau, AK 99801
(907) 465-2920
Alaska State Library

Federal Agencies Operating in Alaska:

FBI Anchorage Field Office
101 East Sixth Avenue
Anchorage, AK 99501
(907) 276-4441
FBI Anchorage

U.S. Marshals Service - District of Alaska
222 West 7th Avenue, Room 173
Anchorage, AK 99513
(907) 271-5154
U.S. Marshals Service - Alaska

Federal Bureau of Prisons - Residential Reentry Management (RRM) Seattle
(Oversees Alaska federal inmates)
700 Stewart Street, Suite 10101
Seattle, WA 98101
(206) 220-6475
Federal Bureau of Prisons

U.S. District Court - District of Alaska
222 West 7th Avenue, Room 229
Anchorage, AK 99513
(907) 677-6100
U.S. District Court - Alaska