North Dakota Arrest Records

North Dakota Public Records /North Dakota Arrest Records

Are Arrest Records Public in North Dakota?

Yes, arrest records in North Dakota are generally public, but access is governed by both the North Dakota Open Records Law (N.D.C.C. § 44-04-18) and state criminal justice statutes. This means that basic arrest information—such as the name of the person arrested, the charges, the arresting agency, and the date of arrest—is available to the public. Many county sheriff’s offices and detention centers provide inmate rosters or daily arrest logs online to comply with transparency rules.

That said, not all arrest-related information is open to the public. Records involving juveniles, sealed or expunged cases, ongoing criminal investigations, and confidential personal data are exempt from disclosure. While the public can access arrest logs, comprehensive criminal history records are maintained by the North Dakota Bureau of Criminal Investigation (BCI), which is part of the Office of the Attorney General. Access to full criminal background checks requires authorization, fees, and often the consent or fingerprints of the subject. This system ensures accountability and transparency while also protecting privacy and the integrity of law enforcement operations.

What Law Governs Access to Arrest Records in North Dakota?

Access to arrest records in North Dakota is primarily governed by the following laws and regulations:

North Dakota Century Code (NDCC) Chapter 44-04 - Open Records Law: This chapter establishes the fundamental right of citizens to access public records, including those related to arrests. Section 44-04-18 specifically addresses the procedures for requesting and obtaining public records.
NDCC Chapter 12-60 - Criminal History Record Information: This chapter regulates the collection, maintenance, and dissemination of criminal history information, including arrest records, by the Bureau of Criminal Investigation.
North Dakota Administrative Code Title 10, Article 13 - Criminal History Record Information: These administrative rules provide detailed guidance on the implementation of the statutory provisions regarding criminal history records.
NDCC Chapter 27-20.2 - Juvenile Court Act: This chapter contains provisions regarding the confidentiality of juvenile records, including arrests of minors.
Federal Regulations (28 CFR Part 20) - Criminal Justice Information Systems: These federal regulations establish standards for the collection, storage, and dissemination of criminal history record information.

The North Dakota Attorney General's Office provides oversight and guidance regarding the interpretation and application of these laws. The office has issued various opinions clarifying the scope and limitations of public access to arrest records under state law.

What Information Is Included in a North Dakota Arrest Record?

A typical arrest record in North Dakota contains comprehensive information about the arrest event and the individual arrested. The specific content may vary depending on the arresting agency and the circumstances of the arrest, but generally includes:

Biographical Information:

Full legal name of the arrested individual
Date of birth
Gender
Race/ethnicity
Physical description (height, weight, eye color, hair color)
Photograph (mugshot)
Fingerprints
Address at time of arrest

Arrest Details:

Date and time of arrest
Location of arrest
Arresting agency
Name and badge number of arresting officer(s)
Booking number or identification
Charges filed (including statute numbers and descriptions)
Arrest circumstances and probable cause information
Weapon information (if applicable)

Case Processing Information:

Court case number (if assigned)
Bail or bond amount
Detention facility information
Initial appearance date
Disposition of charges (if available)
Warrant information (if arrest was pursuant to a warrant)

Additional Information:

Prior criminal history references
Aliases or known associates (in some cases)
Property seized during arrest
Vehicle information (if relevant)

It's important to note that while this information is typically collected during the arrest process, not all of it may be publicly accessible due to privacy protections and other legal restrictions outlined in North Dakota law.

How To Obtain Arrest Records in North Dakota in 2025

Obtaining arrest records in North Dakota can be accomplished through several methods, depending on your specific needs and the type of information you're seeking. Here are the primary ways to access arrest records in North Dakota in 2025:

1. Bureau of Criminal Investigation (BCI)

The North Dakota Bureau of Criminal Investigation is the central repository for criminal history information in the state.

North Dakota Bureau of Criminal Investigation
4205 State Street
Bismarck, ND 58503
(701) 328-5500
North Dakota Bureau of Criminal Investigation

To request records from BCI:

Complete the SFN 50744 "Record Check Request" form
Provide proper identification
Submit the required fee
Include fingerprints for a complete criminal history check

2. Local Law Enforcement Agencies

Contact the specific law enforcement agency that made the arrest:

For arrests made by city police, contact the relevant municipal police department
For arrests made in unincorporated areas, contact the county sheriff's office
Each agency may have different procedures for requesting records

3. County Clerk of Court

If the arrest led to court proceedings, records may be available through the clerk of court in the county where the case was processed.

North Dakota Court System
600 E Boulevard Ave, Dept 180
Bismarck, ND 58505
(701) 328-4216
North Dakota Courts

4. In-Person Requests

Visit the appropriate agency during business hours:

Bring valid government-issued photo identification
Be prepared to complete a request form
Provide as much specific information as possible about the record you seek

5. Written Requests

Submit a written request to the relevant agency:

Include your contact information
Provide specific details about the record you're seeking
Enclose the appropriate fee
Include a self-addressed stamped envelope for response

6. Online Requests

Some records may be available through online portals:

The North Dakota Courts Records Inquiry system
Agency-specific online request systems
Third-party background check services (though these may not be comprehensive)

When requesting arrest records, be prepared to provide:

The full name of the individual
Date of birth
Approximate date of arrest
Arresting agency (if known)
Case number (if available)

Processing times vary by agency and request method, typically ranging from immediate access for online systems to several weeks for comprehensive background checks requiring fingerprint verification.

How to Find Arrest Records Online in North Dakota

North Dakota offers several online resources for accessing arrest records and related information. These digital platforms provide convenient alternatives to in-person requests, though the scope and depth of available information may vary. Here are the primary online methods for finding arrest records in North Dakota:

1. North Dakota Courts Records Inquiry

The North Dakota Court System maintains an online portal that allows public access to court records, including those related to arrests that resulted in court proceedings.

North Dakota Courts Records Inquiry

Features:

Search by name, case number, or citation number
Access to civil, criminal, and traffic case information
View case status, scheduled hearings, and judgments
Some documents may be available for download

Limitations:

Does not include arrests that didn't result in court cases
Some sensitive information may be redacted
Requires registration for full access to certain features

2. North Dakota Inmate Locator

The North Dakota Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (DOCR) maintains an online inmate search tool.

North Dakota DOCR Resident Lookup

Features:

Search for currently incarcerated individuals
Access basic information about inmates
View facility location and potential release dates
Includes individuals in state custody

3. County Sheriff and Police Department Websites

Many local law enforcement agencies in North Dakota maintain their own websites with information about recent arrests, inmate rosters, and most wanted lists:

Cass County Sheriff's Office - Includes jail roster
Burleigh County Sheriff's Department - Provides inmate search
Grand Forks County Sheriff's Office - Offers arrest information
Fargo Police Department - Posts recent arrest information

4. North Dakota Sex Offender Registry

For specific types of arrests related to sex offenses, the state maintains a searchable registry.

North Dakota Sex Offender Website

Features:

Search by name, location, or compliance status
View detailed offender information
Access photographs and offense details
Receive email notifications about offenders in specific areas

Who Can Access Arrest Records in North Dakota?

North Dakota law establishes different levels of access to arrest records based on the requester's identity and purpose. While the state generally follows an open records policy, certain restrictions apply to protect privacy interests and ensure appropriate use of criminal history information.

Public Access:

General members of the public can access basic arrest record information
Public access typically includes arrest date, charges, and case status
Information available through public court records and law enforcement websites
No special authorization required for publicly available information

Enhanced Access for Specific Entities:

Law Enforcement Agencies
- Complete access to all arrest records and criminal history information
- Unrestricted access for legitimate law enforcement purposes
- Ability to view sealed or confidential records with proper authorization
Criminal Justice Agencies
- Courts, prosecutors, and corrections departments
- Access to comprehensive criminal history information
- Ability to view records not available to the general public
Government Licensing Agencies
- Access for background checks related to professional licensing
- Specific statutory authority to review criminal history for licensing decisions
- May include agencies overseeing healthcare, education, and financial services
Employers (Limited)
- Access for employment background checks with written consent
- Restrictions on using arrest records for employment decisions under NDCC 12-60-16.6
- Different standards for public vs. private employers
The Individual Subject of the Record
- Full right to access their own arrest records
- Can obtain complete criminal history information
- May challenge inaccurate information through established procedures

Special Provisions:

Juvenile Records: Generally confidential with limited access under NDCC 27-20.2
Expunged Records: Not accessible to the public after court-ordered expungement
Pending Investigations: Records may be temporarily restricted during active investigations

Under North Dakota law, specifically NDCC 12-60-16.8, it is unlawful to access or use criminal history record information for unauthorized purposes. Violations can result in criminal penalties and civil liability.

Are There Fees for Obtaining Arrest Records in North Dakota?

Yes, North Dakota agencies typically charge fees for providing arrest records and criminal history information. These fees help cover the administrative costs associated with processing requests, maintaining records systems, and providing certified copies. Fee structures vary depending on the agency, the type of record requested, and the purpose of the request.

Bureau of Criminal Investigation (BCI) Fees:

Standard criminal history record check: $15.00
Fingerprint-based criminal history check: $41.25 ($15 state fee + $26.25 FBI fee)
Certified copies of records: Additional $5.00 per document
Priority processing (when available): Additional $5.00

Court System Fees:

Basic court record search: $10.00
Certified copies of court documents: $10.00 for the first page, $2.00 for each additional page
Case file review: Varies by county, typically $10-$20
Electronic access subscription (for bulk users): Annual fees apply

Local Law Enforcement Agency Fees:

Incident/arrest reports: $5.00-$25.00 depending on the agency
Booking photos: $5.00-$15.00 per photo
Specialized searches: Hourly rates may apply for complex requests

Fee Waivers and Reductions:

Some agencies may reduce or waive fees for:
- Individuals requesting their own records for employment purposes
- Nonprofit organizations with limited resources
- Public interest requests from media organizations
- Individuals with demonstrated financial hardship

Payment Methods:

Most agencies accept:
- Credit/debit cards (online requests)
- Money orders or cashier's checks
- Personal checks (with proper identification)
- Cash (for in-person requests only)

Fee schedules are subject to change and may be updated periodically by the respective agencies. It's advisable to contact the specific agency directly or check their official website for the most current fee information before submitting a request.

All fees must be paid at the time of the request, and most agencies will not process requests until payment is received. Refunds are typically not provided for records searches that yield no results.

How Long Are Arrest Records Kept in North Dakota

North Dakota maintains arrest records according to established retention schedules that vary based on the type of record, the outcome of the case, and the agency maintaining the information. These retention periods are governed by state law, administrative rules, and agency policies.

Standard Retention Periods:

Bureau of Criminal Investigation (BCI)
- Felony arrest records: Permanent retention
- Misdemeanor arrest records: Minimum of 10 years
- Arrest records resulting in conviction: Permanent retention
- Arrest records with no charges filed: 3 years from date of arrest
- Arrest records resulting in acquittal: 3 years from date of acquittal
Local Law Enforcement Agencies
- Arrest reports: Minimum of 6 years
- Booking information: Minimum of 10 years
- Investigative files: Varies by agency (typically 5-10 years)
- Juvenile arrest records: Until age 18, then special rules apply
Court Records
- Felony case files: Permanent retention
- Misdemeanor case files: 10 years after case closure
- Traffic violations: 3-5 years after case closure
- Juvenile court records: Special retention rules under NDCC 27-20.2
Department of Corrections
- Inmate records: 10 years after final release from supervision
- Probation/parole records: 10 years after completion of supervision
- Records of serious offenders: Permanent retention

Factors Affecting Retention:

Several factors can modify these standard retention periods:

Court Orders: Expungement or sealing orders may alter retention requirements
Case Disposition: Dismissed cases may have shorter retention periods
Offense Severity: More serious offenses have longer retention periods
Special Categories: Sex offenses, violent crimes, and certain other categories may have extended or permanent retention

Digital vs. Physical Records:

With the transition to digital record-keeping, many agencies maintain electronic records for longer periods than their physical counterparts. Digital storage capabilities have enabled:

Extended retention of electronic fingerprint records
Permanent archiving of digital booking photos
Long-term preservation of scanned arrest documents

The North Dakota Records Management Division provides guidance to state agencies regarding proper records retention and disposition. Their schedules are periodically updated to reflect changes in law and administrative requirements.

What Information Is Redacted or Restricted in North Dakota Arrest Records?

While North Dakota generally maintains an open records policy, certain information within arrest records is subject to redaction or restriction before public release. These protections balance transparency with privacy concerns and the integrity of the criminal justice process.

Commonly Redacted Information:

Personal Identifiers
- Social Security numbers
- Driver's license numbers
- Financial account information
- Date of birth (may be partially redacted)
- Home addresses of private individuals
- Personal telephone numbers and email addresses
Sensitive Information
- Medical and mental health information
- Treatment records and substance abuse history
- Information about sexual assault victims
- Child abuse details that could identify victims
- Confidential informant identities and information
Juvenile Information
- Records pertaining to minors under NDCC 27-20.2
- Names and identifying details of juvenile offenders
- School records and juvenile history
- Juvenile probation and rehabilitation information
Investigation-Related Content
- Active investigation details that could compromise case integrity
- Undercover officer identities
- Confidential investigative techniques
- Information that could endanger witnesses
- Grand jury proceedings and testimony
Legal Restrictions
- Information sealed by court order
- Expunged record information
- Records subject to attorney-client privilege
- Information protected by federal laws (HIPAA, FERPA, etc.)

Legal Basis for Redactions:

Redactions and restrictions are authorized under several North Dakota laws:

NDCC 44-04-18.7: Protects personal information in public records
NDCC 44-04-19.2: Allows redaction of confidential information
NDCC 12-60-16.5: Restricts dissemination of certain criminal history information
NDCC 27-20.2-33: Protects confidentiality of juvenile records
NDCC 44-04-18.3: Protects records of active criminal investigations

Agency Discretion:

Law enforcement agencies and courts have some discretion in determining what information should be redacted based on:

Public safety considerations
Privacy interests of involved parties
Potential prejudice to ongoing proceedings
Statutory and constitutional protections

When requesting arrest records, be aware that the version provided to the public may contain redactions indicated by black marks, notations such as "[REDACTED]," or statements explaining the legal basis for withholding certain information.

How To Seal or Destroy Arrest Records in North Dakota

North Dakota law provides several mechanisms for individuals to seal, expunge, or destroy arrest records under specific circumstances. These processes can help mitigate the long-term consequences of an arrest, particularly when charges were dismissed or the individual was not convicted.

Sealing Records Under NDCC 12-60.1:

North Dakota's Criminal History Record Sealing law (NDCC Chapter 12-60.1) provides the primary pathway for sealing arrest records:

Eligibility Requirements:
- Arrest did not result in a conviction
- Charges were dismissed or the individual was acquitted
- Deferred imposition of sentence was successfully completed
- Waiting periods have been satisfied (varies by offense type)
Application Process:
- File a petition with the district court in the county where the arrest occurred
- Include certified copies of relevant court documents
- Provide fingerprints for positive identification
- Pay required filing fees (approximately $80)
Hearing and Determination:
- Court may schedule a hearing on the petition
- Prosecutor has opportunity to object
- Judge determines if sealing is in the interest of justice
- Court issues an order if petition is granted

Juvenile Record Sealing:

Under NDCC 27-20.2-25, juvenile arrest records follow different procedures:

Automatic Sealing:
- Some juvenile records are automatically sealed when the individual turns 18
- Applies primarily to non-violent offenses and status offenses
Petition for Sealing:
- File petition with juvenile court
- Demonstrate rehabilitation and good conduct
- Show that sealing serves the best interest of the individual and public

Pardon and Clemency:

For arrests resulting in conviction, the North Dakota Pardon Advisory Board process may be available:

Application Requirements:
- Completion of sentence including probation/parole
- Waiting period (typically 5-10 years depending on offense)
- Evidence of rehabilitation and good conduct
Board Review:
- Application reviewed by Pardon Advisory Board
- Recommendation made to the Governor
- Governor makes final decision on pardon

DNA Record Expungement:

If DNA was collected during an arrest, NDCC 31-13-07 provides for expungement of DNA records when:

Charges are dismissed or not filed
Individual is acquitted
Conviction is reversed and case dismissed

Important Considerations:

Sealing records does not completely destroy them; sealed records remain available to law enforcement
Multiple arrests may require separate petitions for each incident
Federal arrests cannot be sealed through state processes
Some professional licensing boards may still have access to sealed records
Legal assistance is strongly recommended for navigating these complex processes

For assistance with record sealing, individuals can contact:

North Dakota Legal Services
418 E Broadway Ave #7
Bismarck, ND 58501
(701) 258-4270
Legal Services of North Dakota

What Are the Limitations on the Use of Arrest Records in North Dakota?

North Dakota 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 fairness to individuals who have been arrested but not necessarily convicted of crimes.

Employment Limitations:

Under NDCC 12-60-16.6, employers face restrictions when using arrest records:

Arrest-Only Records:
- Employers generally cannot use records of arrests that did not result in conviction
- Exception exists if charges are pending and directly relate to job duties
- Public employers have broader access but must consider relevance
Timing Restrictions:
- Employers must consider the time elapsed since the arrest
- Older arrests generally carry less weight in employment decisions
- Recent arrests may be considered more relevant to current character
Relevance Requirement:
- Criminal history must be directly related to specific job duties
- Employers must conduct individualized assessments
- Blanket policies against hiring anyone with an arrest record are problematic

Housing Limitations:

Housing providers in North Dakota must follow these guidelines:

Public Housing:
- Housing authorities can consider criminal history but must follow HUD guidelines
- Arrest records without convictions generally cannot be sole basis for denial
- Individualized assessment required under fair housing principles
Private Housing:
- Landlords have more discretion but must avoid discriminatory practices
- Policies that disproportionately impact protected classes may violate fair housing laws
- Best practice is to consider relevance and recency of arrests

Licensing Limitations:

Professional licensing boards in North Dakota:

Statutory Restrictions:
- Many licensing statutes require "good moral character"
- Some professions have specific restrictions on considering arrest records
- Boards must typically consider rehabilitation evidence
Due Process Requirements:
- Applicants must receive notice of potentially disqualifying arrests
- Opportunity to provide context and evidence of rehabilitation
- Right to appeal adverse decisions

Commercial Limitations:

Under NDCC 12-60-16.8, commercial use of criminal history information is restricted:

Consent Requirements:
- Written consent generally required before obtaining records for commercial purposes
- Disclosure of purpose required when requesting records
- Limitations on redistribution of obtained information
Background Check Companies:
- Must comply with Fair Credit Reporting Act requirements
- Must maintain procedures for maximum possible accuracy
- Must provide notice before reporting adverse information

Educational Limitations:

Educational institutions in North Dakota:

Admission Decisions:
- Public institutions have policies governing use of criminal history
- Arrest-only records typically cannot be sole basis for denial
- Consideration must be given to educational opportunity goals
Campus Safety Exceptions:
- More latitude when arrests involve campus safety concerns
- Sexual offenses and violent crimes may receive greater scrutiny
- Safety of campus community can be weighed against individual opportunity

Violations of these limitations may result in civil liability, administrative penalties, or in some cases, criminal charges for misuse of criminal history information.

Lookup Arrest Records in North Dakota

State Repository for Criminal History Records

North Dakota Bureau of Criminal Investigation (BCI)
4205 State Street
Bismarck, ND 58503
(701) 328-5500
North Dakota Bureau of Criminal Investigation

State Department of Public Safety

North Dakota Department of Emergency Services
P.O. Box 5511
Bismarck, ND 58506
(701) 328-8100
North Dakota Department of Emergency Services

State Department of Corrections

North Dakota Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation
3100 Railroad Avenue
Bismarck, ND 58501
(701) 328-6390
North Dakota Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation

State Court System

North Dakota Supreme Court
600 East Boulevard Avenue, Dept. 180
Bismarck, ND 58505
(701) 328-2221
North Dakota Supreme Court

North Dakota District Courts
600 East Boulevard Avenue, Dept. 180
Bismarck, ND 58505
(701) 328-4216
North Dakota District Courts

Attorney General's Office

North Dakota Office of Attorney General
600 East Boulevard Avenue, Dept. 125
Bismarck, ND 58505
(701) 328-2210
North Dakota Office of Attorney General

County Sheriff's Offices

Cass County Sheriff's Office
1612 23rd Avenue North
Fargo, ND 58102
(701) 241-5800
Cass County Sheriff's Office
Burleigh County Sheriff's Department
514 East Thayer Avenue
Bismarck, ND 58501
(701) 222-6651
Burleigh County Sheriff's Department
Grand Forks County Sheriff's Office
122 South 5th Street
Grand Forks, ND 58201
(701) 780-8280
Grand Forks County Sheriff's Office
Ward County Sheriff's Department
315 3rd Street SE
Minot, ND 58701
(701) 857-6500
Ward County Sheriff's Department
Williams County Sheriff's Office
223 East Broadway, Suite 301
Williston, ND 58801
(701) 577-7700
Williams County Sheriff's Office
Stark County Sheriff's Office
66 Museum Drive
Dickinson, ND 58601
(701) 456-7610
Stark County Sheriff's Office
Morton County Sheriff's Office
205 1st Avenue NW
Mandan, ND 58554
(701) 667-3330
Morton County Sheriff's Office
Stutsman County Sheriff's Office
205 6th Street SE
Jamestown, ND 58401
(701) 252-9000
Stutsman County Sheriff's Office
Richland County Sheriff's Office
413 3rd Avenue North
Wahpeton, ND 58075
(701) 642-7711
Richland County Sheriff's Office
Ramsey County Sheriff's Office
524 4th Avenue NE
Devils Lake, ND 58301
(701) 662-0700
Ramsey County Sheriff's Office

Municipal Police Departments

Fargo Police Department
105 25th Street North
Fargo, ND 58102
(701) 235-4493
Fargo Police Department
Bismarck Police Department
700 South 9th Street
Bismarck, ND 58504
(701) 223-1212
Bismarck Police Department
Grand Forks Police Department
122 South 5th Street
Grand Forks, ND 58201
(701) 787-8000
Grand Forks Police Department
Minot Police Department
515 2nd Avenue SW
Minot, ND 58701
(701) 852-0111
Minot Police Department
West Fargo Police Department
800 4th Avenue East
West Fargo, ND 58078
(701) 433-5500
West Fargo Police Department

Federal Agencies Operating in North Dakota

Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) - Minot Resident Agency
100 1st Street SW
Minot, ND 58701
(701) 852-5071
FBI Minneapolis Division

U.S. Marshals Service - District of North Dakota
655 1st Avenue North, Suite 320
Fargo, ND 58102
(701) 297-7325
U.S. Marshals Service - District of North Dakota

U.S. Courts – PACER (Public Access to Court Electronic Records)
Online Access to Federal Court Records
(800) 676-6856
PACER