Arrest records in Pinellas County, Florida are public documents accessible to all citizens pursuant to Florida's Public Records Law, Chapter 119 of the Florida Statutes. This legislation, commonly known as the "Sunshine Law," establishes that all government records, including arrest records, must be available for public inspection unless specifically exempted by statute. The law promotes governmental transparency and accountability by ensuring citizens have access to information regarding law enforcement activities within their communities.
The Pinellas County Clerk of the Circuit Court maintains these records as part of their statutory responsibility under Florida Statute § 28.13, which requires clerks to maintain legal records and make them available to the public. Certain exceptions to public disclosure exist for juvenile records, active criminal investigations, and records sealed or expunged by court order as provided in Florida Statute § 943.0585 and § 943.059.
Pinellas County Clerk of the Circuit Court
315 Court Street
Clearwater, FL 33756
(727) 464-7000
Pinellas County Court Records
Digital access to Pinellas County arrest records is available through several official online platforms maintained by county agencies. The Pinellas County Sheriff's Office provides an online inmate booking and arrest inquiry system that allows the public to search for current inmates and recently released individuals. Additionally, the Clerk of the Circuit Court offers a comprehensive records search system for court cases related to arrests.
These digital repositories are updated regularly in accordance with Florida Statute § 119.021, which requires agencies to maintain records in a manner that facilitates public access. The online systems typically include arrest information dating back several years, though the completeness of older records may vary. Users should note that while basic arrest information is available online, obtaining complete arrest reports or case files may require additional steps or in-person requests.
Pinellas County Sheriff's Office
10750 Ulmerton Road
Largo, FL 33778
(727) 582-6200
Pinellas County Sheriff's Office
Multiple official channels exist for accessing Pinellas County arrest records in 2025:
Online Database Searches: The Pinellas County Sheriff's Office Arrest Inquiry system provides searchable access to booking information for current inmates and recently released individuals. The Pinellas County Clerk's Office maintains an online portal for searching criminal court records associated with arrests.
In-Person Requests: Citizens may visit the Records Section of the Pinellas County Sheriff's Office or the Criminal Court Records department of the Clerk's Office to request physical copies of arrest records. Identification is required, and applicable fees will be assessed in accordance with Florida Statute § 119.07(4).
Written Requests: Written requests for arrest records may be submitted to either the Sheriff's Office Records Section or the Clerk of Court. Requests must include sufficient information to identify the specific records sought, including the full name of the arrested individual and, if possible, the date of arrest or case number.
Public Access Terminals: Self-service computer terminals are available at the Pinellas County Justice Center and various branch locations of the Clerk's Office, allowing citizens to search and print arrest records for a nominal fee.
Pinellas County Justice Center
14250 49th Street North
Clearwater, FL 33762
(727) 464-7000
Criminal Court Records
Pinellas County arrest records contain standardized information as required by Florida Statute § 119.071(2)(b). These official documents typically include:
Pursuant to Florida Statute § 119.071, certain information may be redacted from public arrest records, including social security numbers, driver's license numbers, and information related to victims of specific crimes. Additionally, information regarding confidential informants, undercover personnel, and ongoing investigations may be exempt from public disclosure.
Florida law provides mechanisms for the expungement or sealing of arrest records under specific circumstances as outlined in Florida Statutes § 943.0585 and § 943.059. Expungement physically destroys the record, while sealing removes it from public view but maintains it for limited official purposes.
Eligibility requirements for expungement in Pinellas County include:
The expungement process requires:
Individuals seeking expungement must submit fingerprints for a state and national criminal history check as part of the application process. The current application fee for a Certificate of Eligibility is $75.00, and additional court filing fees apply.
Pinellas County State Attorney's Office
14250 49th Street North
Clearwater, FL 33762
(727) 464-6221
Public Records Information