Cabarrus County Arrest Records
Are Arrest Records Public in Cabarrus County
Arrest records in Cabarrus County are considered public information under North Carolina law. The North Carolina Public Records Act, codified in North Carolina General Statutes § 132-1, establishes that records made or received in the transaction of public business are public property and subject to public inspection. This statute specifically defines public records to include "all documents, papers, letters, maps, books, photographs, films, sound recordings, magnetic or other tapes, electronic data-processing records, artifacts, or other documentary material, regardless of physical form or characteristics."
It is important to distinguish between arrest records and conviction records. Arrest records document that an individual was taken into custody by law enforcement on suspicion of criminal activity, while conviction records indicate that a person was found guilty of a crime through legal proceedings. Under North Carolina law, both types of records are generally accessible to the public, though certain exceptions may apply.
The North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation maintains the central repository of criminal history information for the state, including arrest data from Cabarrus County. However, access to complete criminal history information may be restricted to authorized agencies and individuals with specific purposes as outlined in N.C.G.S. § 114-19.1.
What's in Cabarrus County Arrest Records
Cabarrus County arrest records contain comprehensive information about individuals who have been taken into custody by law enforcement agencies within the county. These records typically include the following categories of information:
Arrestee Identifying Information:
- Full legal name (including aliases or known nicknames)
- Date of birth
- Physical description (height, weight, eye color, hair color)
- Gender
- Race/ethnicity
- Home address
- Identifying marks (tattoos, scars, etc.)
- Fingerprints
- Photograph (mugshot)
Arrest Details:
- Date and time of arrest
- Location of arrest
- Arresting agency
- Name and badge number of arresting officer(s)
- Circumstances leading to arrest
- Use of force information (if applicable)
Charge Information:
- Criminal charges filed
- Statute or ordinance numbers
- Charge classification (felony, misdemeanor)
- Charge description
- Charge severity level
Warrant Information (if applicable):
- Warrant number
- Issuing court
- Date issued
- Serving officer
Booking Information:
- Booking date and time
- Booking number
- Processing officer
- Property inventory
Bond/Bail Information:
- Bond amount
- Bond type
- Bond status
- Conditions of release
Court Information:
- Court case number
- Assigned court
- Scheduled court dates
- Court disposition (if available)
Custody Status:
- Current detention status
- Expected release date (if applicable)
- Facility location
Additional Information May Include:
- Prior arrest history
- Probation/parole status
- Immigration holds
- Medical alerts
- Behavioral notes
- Special housing requirements
The specific content of arrest records may vary depending on the arresting agency and the circumstances of the arrest. Records maintained by the Cabarrus County Sheriff's Office may contain different or additional information compared to those from municipal police departments within the county.
How To Look Up Arrest Records in Cabarrus County in 2026
Members of the public seeking arrest records in Cabarrus County may utilize several methods to access this information. The county maintains current systems for record retrieval that accommodate both in-person and remote requests.
For in-person requests, individuals may visit:
Cabarrus County Sheriff's Office Records Division
30 Corban Avenue SE
Concord, NC 28025
Phone: (704) 920-3000
Cabarrus County Sheriff's Office
The Records Division is typically open Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, excluding holidays. Requestors should be prepared to:
- Complete a public records request form
- Provide specific information about the record being sought (name, date of birth, date of arrest)
- Present valid government-issued photo identification
- Pay applicable fees for record reproduction (fees are established pursuant to N.C.G.S. § 132-6.2)
For written requests, individuals may submit a formal public records request by mail to the address above or via email to the designated records custodian. Written requests should include:
- Requestor's full name and contact information
- Specific description of records being sought
- Preferred method of record delivery
- Date range for the requested records
- Signature and date
The Cabarrus County Sheriff's Office strives to respond to public records requests within a reasonable timeframe, typically 3-5 business days, though complex requests may require additional processing time. Under North Carolina law, agencies are required to respond "as promptly as possible" to public records requests.
For arrest records related to cases handled by municipal police departments within Cabarrus County, requestors should contact the specific agency directly:
Concord Police Department Records Division
41 Cabarrus Avenue W
Concord, NC 28025
Phone: (704) 920-5000
Concord Police Department
Kannapolis Police Department Records Division
401 Laureate Way
Kannapolis, NC 28081
Phone: (704) 920-4000
Kannapolis Police Department
How To Find Cabarrus County Arrest Records Online
Cabarrus County provides several online resources for accessing arrest records electronically. These digital platforms offer convenient alternatives to in-person requests and may provide immediate access to certain public information.
The primary online resource for Cabarrus County arrest information is the Cabarrus County Sheriff's Office Inmate Inquiry system. This database allows users to search for currently incarcerated individuals and those recently released from custody. To utilize this system:
- Navigate to the Cabarrus County Sheriff's Office website
- Select the "Detention Center" section
- Click on "Inmate Inquiry"
- Enter search criteria (name, booking number, or other identifiers)
- Review the results displayed
For broader criminal history information, the North Carolina Department of Public Safety Offender Public Information Search provides access to records of individuals who have been incarcerated in state facilities or are under community supervision. This database includes information on offenders from Cabarrus County who have entered the state correctional system.
Additionally, the North Carolina Court System maintains an online case information system that allows users to search for criminal cases, including those originating from arrests in Cabarrus County:
- Visit the North Carolina Judicial Branch website
- Select "Court Calendars and Case Information"
- Choose "Criminal Case Information"
- Select Cabarrus County from the jurisdiction menu
- Enter the defendant's name or case number
- Review the case information displayed
Users should note that online systems may not contain complete arrest records, particularly for recent arrests or sealed/expunged cases. For comprehensive arrest record information, direct contact with the Cabarrus County Sheriff's Office Records Division remains the most reliable method.
How To Search Cabarrus County Arrest Records for Free?
Members of the public have several options for accessing Cabarrus County arrest records without incurring fees. North Carolina law, specifically N.C.G.S. § 132-6(a), provides that "every person having custody of public records shall permit them to be inspected and examined at reasonable times and under reasonable supervision by any person, and shall furnish copies thereof on payment of fees as prescribed by law."
Free methods for accessing arrest records include:
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Online Inmate Search: The Cabarrus County Sheriff's Office provides a free online inmate search tool that displays basic information about currently incarcerated individuals and those recently released from custody. This resource is accessible through the Sheriff's Office website.
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In-Person Record Inspection: Individuals may visit the Cabarrus County Sheriff's Office Records Division during regular business hours to inspect arrest records without charge. While copying fees may apply for obtaining physical copies, viewing the records is free of charge.
Cabarrus County Sheriff's Office Records Division
30 Corban Avenue SE
Concord, NC 28025
Phone: (704) 920-3000
Cabarrus County Sheriff's Office -
Public Access Terminals: The Cabarrus County Courthouse provides public access terminals where visitors can search court records related to arrests at no cost:
Cabarrus County Courthouse
77 Union Street S
Concord, NC 28025
Phone: (704) 262-5500
North Carolina Judicial Branch - Cabarrus County -
Public Library Resources: The Cabarrus County Public Library system offers free internet access where patrons can utilize online public records resources:
Cabarrus County Public Library - Concord Branch
27 Union Street N
Concord, NC 28025
Phone: (704) 920-2050
Cabarrus County Public Library
When utilizing free search methods, requestors should be prepared to provide specific identifying information about the subject of the search, such as full name, date of birth, or approximate date of arrest. More detailed or comprehensive records may require formal requests and associated fees.
How To Delete Arrest Records in Cabarrus County
In Cabarrus County, as throughout North Carolina, arrest records cannot be "deleted" in the conventional sense, but they may be eligible for expungement or sealing under specific circumstances. Expungement is the legal process of removing an arrest or conviction from public records, while sealing restricts public access to these records while maintaining them for certain governmental or law enforcement purposes.
The authority for expungement in North Carolina is established under N.C.G.S. § 15A-145 through § 15A-152, which outlines various pathways for expungement based on the nature of the offense, the disposition of the case, and the individual's criminal history.
Eligibility criteria for expungement in Cabarrus County typically include:
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Charges Resulting in Dismissal or Not Guilty Verdict: Individuals may petition for expungement of arrest records if charges were dismissed or resulted in a not guilty verdict.
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First-Time Nonviolent Offenses: Certain first-time nonviolent misdemeanor or felony convictions may be eligible for expungement after waiting periods ranging from 5 to 10 years, depending on the offense.
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Juvenile Records: Records created when the individual was under 18 years of age may have different expungement eligibility requirements.
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Identity Theft Victims: Persons who were arrested due to another individual using their identity may petition for immediate expungement.
The expungement process in Cabarrus County typically involves:
- Filing a petition for expungement with the Cabarrus County Clerk of Superior Court
- Paying the required filing fee (currently $175 for most petitions)
- Obtaining an SBI (State Bureau of Investigation) background check
- Attending a hearing if scheduled by the court
- Waiting for judicial review and determination
Individuals seeking expungement are strongly encouraged to consult with legal counsel, as the process is complex and requirements vary based on individual circumstances. The North Carolina Administrative Office of the Courts provides standardized forms for expungement petitions.
For assistance with the expungement process, individuals may contact:
Cabarrus County Clerk of Superior Court
77 Union Street S
Concord, NC 28025
Phone: (704) 262-5500
North Carolina Judicial Branch - Cabarrus County
What Happens After Arrest in Cabarrus County?
Following an arrest in Cabarrus County, individuals enter a structured criminal justice process governed by North Carolina state law and local procedures. This process typically progresses through several distinct phases:
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Booking and Initial Processing: Upon arrest, individuals are transported to the Cabarrus County Detention Center where they undergo booking procedures, including:
- Photographing (mugshot)
- Fingerprinting
- Personal property inventory
- Medical screening
- Background check
- Creation of arrest record
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Initial Appearance: Within 48 hours of arrest (typically much sooner), arrestees appear before a magistrate who:
- Formally advises of charges
- Determines probable cause
- Sets initial bail conditions
- Schedules first court appearance
- Appoints counsel for indigent defendants if requested
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Pretrial Release Determination: The magistrate evaluates factors including:
- Nature and circumstances of the offense
- Weight of evidence
- Community ties and flight risk
- Criminal history
- Public safety considerations Based on these factors, the magistrate may order:
- Release on personal recognizance
- Release with conditions
- Secured bond
- Detention without bond (for certain serious offenses)
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First Appearance Hearing: For felony charges, defendants appear before a District Court judge who:
- Reviews charges
- Confirms or modifies bail conditions
- Addresses representation issues
- Sets dates for subsequent proceedings
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Probable Cause Hearing: For felonies, a hearing may be held to determine if sufficient evidence exists to proceed with prosecution, though this is often waived.
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Grand Jury Indictment: Felony cases proceed to the Cabarrus County Grand Jury, which determines whether sufficient evidence exists to issue an indictment.
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Arraignment: Defendants are formally presented with charges and enter a plea (guilty, not guilty, or no contest).
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Pretrial Conferences and Motions: Attorneys may file various motions and negotiate potential plea agreements.
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Trial: If no plea agreement is reached, the case proceeds to trial in either:
- District Court (for misdemeanors)
- Superior Court (for felonies)
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Sentencing: Upon conviction, the court imposes penalties according to North Carolina Structured Sentencing guidelines, which may include:
- Incarceration
- Probation
- Fines
- Community service
- Treatment programs
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Appeals: Defendants have the right to appeal convictions and sentences to higher courts.
Throughout this process, the Cabarrus County District Attorney's Office is responsible for prosecuting cases, while the Public Defender's Office or private counsel represents defendants. The process timeline varies significantly based on case complexity, court calendars, and whether the defendant is in custody or released pending trial.
How Long Are Arrest Records Kept in Cabarrus County?
Arrest records in Cabarrus County are maintained according to North Carolina's records retention schedules, which are established pursuant to N.C.G.S. § 121-5 and N.C.G.S. § 132-8. These statutes authorize the Department of Natural and Cultural Resources to develop and implement records retention schedules for state and local government agencies, including law enforcement.
The North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources' Records Retention Schedule for Local Government Agencies establishes the following retention periods for arrest-related records:
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Arrest Reports and Arrest Warrants: Permanent retention is required for felony arrests. Misdemeanor arrests must be retained for 3 years.
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Booking Records: These must be maintained for 3 years after the individual is released from custody.
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Criminal Histories: Records of an individual's prior arrests and convictions are maintained permanently.
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Fingerprint Cards and Photographs (Mugshots): These are retained permanently for felony arrests and for 3 years for misdemeanor arrests.
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Incident Reports Related to Arrests: These must be maintained for 5 years.
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Use of Force Reports: These must be retained for 5 years.
Different agencies within Cabarrus County may have varying retention requirements:
- The Cabarrus County Sheriff's Office maintains records according to the county's approved retention schedule.
- Municipal police departments within the county (Concord, Kannapolis, etc.) follow their respective municipal retention schedules.
- The North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation maintains permanent records of arrests in its central repository.
- The Administrative Office of the Courts maintains court records related to arrests according to its own retention schedule.
It is important to note that even when physical records reach the end of their retention period, digital records and database entries may be maintained for longer periods or indefinitely. Additionally, records that have been expunged pursuant to court order are removed from public access regardless of retention schedules.
The retention of arrest records serves several important purposes, including:
- Preserving evidence for ongoing and future investigations
- Supporting prosecution of cases
- Enabling background checks for employment and licensing
- Facilitating research and statistical analysis of crime patterns
- Ensuring accountability of law enforcement agencies
How to Find Mugshots in Cabarrus County
Mugshots, officially known as booking photographs, are created during the arrest booking process in Cabarrus County. These photographs serve as visual identification records of individuals processed into the criminal justice system.
What Mugshots Are
Mugshots typically consist of front-facing and profile (side) photographs of arrested individuals, taken under standardized conditions. These images are created primarily for law enforcement identification purposes and become part of the official arrest record. In Cabarrus County, mugshots are taken during the booking process at the Cabarrus County Detention Center.
Where Mugshots Are Maintained
Mugshots from Cabarrus County arrests are maintained by several agencies:
- The Cabarrus County Sheriff's Office maintains booking photographs as part of their arrest records.
- The North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation maintains copies of mugshots in their central criminal records repository.
- Municipal police departments may maintain copies of mugshots for arrests they process.
Finding Mugshots
To locate mugshots from Cabarrus County arrests, individuals may:
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Submit a public records request to the Cabarrus County Sheriff's Office Records Division:
Cabarrus County Sheriff's Office Records Division
30 Corban Avenue SE
Concord, NC 28025
Phone: (704) 920-3000
Cabarrus County Sheriff's Office -
Check the Cabarrus County Sheriff's Office online inmate inquiry system, which may display mugshots of currently incarcerated individuals.
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Contact the arresting agency directly if the arrest was made by a municipal police department.
Can They Be Found Online
The Cabarrus County Sheriff's Office provides limited online access to mugshots through their inmate inquiry system. This system typically displays booking photographs only for individuals currently in custody or recently released. Historical mugshots generally require a formal records request.
Some third-party websites aggregate and publish mugshots obtained from public records. However, these sites may:
- Contain outdated or inaccurate information
- Fail to update records when charges are dismissed or expunged
- Charge fees for removal of photographs
- Operate outside North Carolina jurisdiction
The North Carolina General Assembly has addressed concerns about commercial mugshot websites through legislation that prohibits charging fees for removing mugshots when charges have been dismissed or the individual has been found not guilty.
Obtaining Mugshots Officially
To officially obtain a mugshot from Cabarrus County records:
- Submit a completed public records request form to the Sheriff's Office Records Division
- Provide specific identifying information about the subject (full name, date of birth, approximate date of arrest)
- Pay any applicable reproduction fees
- Present valid identification
- Specify the intended use of the mugshot
Restrictions on Mugshot Access
Access to mugshots may be restricted under certain circumstances:
- Juvenile arrest records (under age 18) are generally confidential under North Carolina law
- Expunged arrest records and associated mugshots are removed from public access
- Records pertaining to ongoing investigations may be temporarily withheld
- Privacy protections may apply to certain categories of arrests
- Records may be subject to redaction to protect sensitive information
Individuals seeking mugshots for commercial purposes should be aware of potential legal restrictions on their use and publication.