Arrest records in Osceola County, Florida are public documents accessible to all citizens pursuant to Chapter 119 of the Florida Statutes, commonly known as the Florida Public Records Act. This legislation establishes that government records, including those pertaining to arrests, shall be available for public inspection unless specifically exempted by statutory provision. The Florida Public Records Act serves as a cornerstone of governmental transparency, enabling citizens to monitor law enforcement activities and ensuring accountability within the criminal justice system.
Certain exceptions to public disclosure exist under Florida Statute § 119.071, which protects specific categories of information such as ongoing investigations, juvenile records, and personal identifying information of certain protected classes of individuals. These exemptions are narrowly construed to maintain the broadest possible public access while protecting legitimate privacy and security interests.
Digital access to arrest records is available through several official Osceola County platforms. The Osceola County Sheriff's Office maintains a comprehensive database of recent arrests and inmate information that is updated regularly. Additionally, the Clerk of the Circuit Court provides access to court records related to criminal cases through their online portal.
Pursuant to Florida Statute § 119.01(2)(a), agencies are encouraged to make records available by electronic means whenever feasible. The statute specifically states that "automation of public records must not erode the right of access to those records." Accordingly, Osceola County has implemented digital systems that facilitate public access while maintaining the integrity and security of the information.
Users should note that while basic arrest information is typically available online, certain documents may require in-person requests due to redaction requirements or technical limitations. A nominal fee may apply for certain record retrieval services in accordance with Florida Statute § 119.07(4).
Members of the public seeking arrest records in Osceola County have multiple methods available for accessing this information:
Online Database Searches: The Osceola County Sheriff's Office public records portal provides 24-hour access to arrest logs and inmate information. Users may search by name, date of arrest, or case number.
In-Person Requests: Citizens may visit the Records Division of the Osceola County Sheriff's Office to submit requests and receive immediate assistance with record searches.
Osceola County Sheriff's Office Records Division
2601 E. Irlo Bronson Memorial Highway
Kissimmee, FL 34744
(407) 348-1100
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Official Website
Written Requests: Formal written requests may be submitted via mail or email to the Records Division. Requests must include the subject's full name, date of birth, and specific information sought.
Clerk of Circuit Court: Court records related to arrests and subsequent proceedings are maintained by the Clerk's office.
Office of Kelvin Soto, Esq., Osceola Clerk of the Circuit Court
2 Courthouse Square, Suite 2000
Kissimmee, FL 34741
(407) 742-3500
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM
Official Website
Background Check Services: The Sheriff's Office provides official background checks for employment, housing, or personal purposes for a fee of $5.00 per name search.
Pursuant to Florida Statute § 119.07(1)(a), agencies must acknowledge requests promptly and respond in good faith. Standard processing time for record requests is 3-5 business days, though complex requests may require additional time.
Arrest records maintained by Osceola County law enforcement agencies typically contain the following categories of information as prescribed by Florida Statute § 119.021 regarding public records maintenance:
Certain information may be redacted from public versions of arrest records in accordance with exemptions provided in Florida Statute § 119.071, including social security numbers, driver's license numbers, and medical information. Additionally, information related to victims of certain crimes may be protected under Marsy's Law (Article I, Section 16 of the Florida Constitution).
Florida law provides mechanisms for the expungement or sealing of certain arrest records under specific circumstances. The process is governed by Florida Statute § 943.0585 (expungement) and § 943.059 (sealing) and is administered through the Florida Department of Law Enforcement and the Sixth Judicial Circuit Court.
Eligibility criteria for expungement in Osceola County include:
The expungement process requires:
Applicants should note that expungement is a discretionary judicial remedy, not an absolute right. The court maintains authority to deny petitions even when statutory criteria are met if other factors warrant denial.
Legal assistance is strongly recommended for navigating the expungement process. The Osceola County Bar Association can provide referrals to qualified attorneys specializing in record expungement.
Osceola County Courthouse
2 Courthouse Square
Kissimmee, FL 34741
(407) 742-3708
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:00 PM
Official Website