Tampa Police Arrest Records are public documents that show details about arrests made within city limits. These records include names, charges, booking dates, mugshots, and court information. Anyone can request them, but rules apply. Some files are online, while others need an in-person visit. This page explains how to get these records, what they contain, fees, legal rights, and how to fix errors like identity theft. All information comes from official sources and is up to date as of 2024.
How to Request Tampa Police Arrest Records
You can get Tampa Police Arrest Records in three ways: online, by mail, or in person. For recent arrests under 60 days old, you must visit the Records Section at 411 North Franklin Street. Older records are searchable online through the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office portal. Each method has different steps and requirements.
Online Search for Arrest Records
The fastest way to find older arrest records is using the HCSO Arrest Inquiry website. Go to http://webapps.hcso.tampa.fl.us/ArrestInquiry/. You can search by booking number, full name, date of birth, race, gender, or booking and release dates. After entering details, answer three security questions. Then, download a PDF docket with the officer’s report, charges, bond amount, and court date. The file includes a watermark with the time and date of your request. This service covers adult arrests from January 1, 1995, to today.
In-Person Requests at Records Division
For records less than 60 days old or certified copies, go to the Tampa Police Records Division at 306 East Jackson Street, Tampa, FL 33602. The office is open Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Bring a valid government-issued photo ID, like a driver’s license or passport. If you’re asking for a victim report, bring a photocopy of your license. Fill out a signed request form that says what type of record you need. Staff will process your request while you wait or mail it later.
Mail-In and Phone Requests
You may also send a written request by mail to the same address. Include your full name, contact info, the subject’s name, date of birth, and booking number if known. Attach a copy of your ID and a signed form. Call (813) 274-8211 during business hours for updates or questions. After-hours calls go to voicemail and are passed to an on-call supervisor for urgent matters. Mail processing takes 5–10 business days.
Fees and Payment Options for Arrest Records
Getting Tampa Police Arrest Records costs money. Fees vary by document type. A citation copy costs $5. An arrest report costs $15. Background check authorizations cost $30. Certified copies cost extra. Pay with cash, check, or credit card at the Records Section. Receipts are given for all payments. Fees help cover printing, staff time, and record storage. Prices may change, so call (813) 276-3250 before visiting.
What Information Is Included in Tampa Arrest Records?
Each Tampa Police Arrest Record contains specific details. The main parts are the subject’s full name, date of birth, race, and gender. It lists the arrest date, time, and location. Charges are shown with statute codes. The arresting officer’s badge number is included. Bond amounts and court dates appear if set. Mugshots are online but not always in paper copies. Incident reports describe what happened. All data comes from official police files and court systems.
Types of Records Available
The Tampa Police Department keeps three main kinds of records: arrest logs, accident reports, and criminal history files. Arrest logs show basic info like name, charge, and booking time. Accident reports include vehicle details, driver statements, and citations. Criminal history files list past convictions, parole status, and sentences. Researchers can ask for any of these by type.
How Long Are Records Kept?
Arrest records stay public unless a court seals or expunges them. The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office keeps electronic records from January 1, 1995, to today. Older paper files may be archived but are still available upon request. Juvenile records are not public and require a court order to view.
Legal Rights and Privacy Concerns
Under Florida law, arrest records are public unless sealed. Anyone can see them, but misuse is illegal. Employers cannot discriminate based solely on arrest data. Landlords must follow fair housing rules. If your record is wrong due to identity theft, you can fix it. The Sheriff’s Office offers an Identity-Theft Form. Go to the Identification Section on the second floor of Sheriff’s Headquarters. Bring a notarized affidavit, photo ID, and proof like a police report. The office hides the record during review, which takes up to 14 business days.
Expungement and Sealing of Records
If you were arrested but not convicted, you might qualify to seal or expunge your record. Sealing hides it from most searches. Expungement destroys it. Apply through the Florida Department of Law Enforcement. The process takes months and requires fingerprints, fees, and court approval. Once done, the record disappears from public databases, including HCSO’s site.
Official Contact Information and Hours
The Tampa Police Department Headquarters is at One Police Center, 411 N. Franklin Street, Tampa, FL 33602. Main phone: (813) 276-3200. For jail and booking info, call (813) 247-8300. The impound lot number is (813) 242-5328. Emergency calls go to 911. Non-urgent questions can be sent online with a two-day response guarantee. The Records Section is at 306 East Jackson Street, open Monday–Friday, 8:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m.
Public Databases and Third-Party Sites
Several websites show Tampa Police Arrest Records. The official source is the HCSO Arrest Inquiry portal. Other sites like Florida.StateRecords.org and PoliceArrests.com gather data from public sources. These are not run by the police. They may have errors or outdated info. Always verify with official records before making decisions. Third-party sites often charge fees but do not offer certified copies.
Hillsborough County Arrests and Inmate Search
The HCSO public site shows current inmates and recent arrests. Each profile has charges, booking photos, and custody status. It does not confirm convictions. Everyone is presumed innocent until proven guilty. Use this info for awareness only. Do not rely on it for hiring, renting, or legal actions without checking court records.
Common Questions About Arrest Data
Data shows most arrests in Tampa involve people aged 21–30. Men are arrested more often than women. Felonies are more common among male suspects. Misdemeanors appear more in white populations. These trends match city crime reports from 2023. Names like Kevin Cosme, Devontay Jackson, and Robert Cutler appear frequently in databases. This reflects repeat offenses, not guilt.
How to Use Arrest Records Responsibly
Arrest records are tools, not judgments. Never assume someone is guilty because they were arrested. Charges can be dropped or changed. Always check court outcomes. If using records for background checks, follow federal and state laws. Tell applicants if you deny jobs or housing based on arrest data. Give them a chance to explain.
Links to Official Resources
City of Tampa Police Records: https://www.tampa.gov/police/records
HCSO Arrest Inquiry: http://webapps.hcso.tampa.fl.us/ArrestInquiry/
Florida State Records: https://florida.staterecords.org/hillsborough/tampa
Public Records Portal: https://www.tampa.gov/info/public-records
Frequently Asked Questions
Below are common questions about Tampa Police Arrest Records. Each answer gives clear, factual help based on official policies and Florida law.
Can I get someone else’s arrest record?
Yes, arrest records are public in Florida unless sealed by a court. You do not need to be related or have a reason. Just provide the person’s name, date of birth, and other details when searching. If requesting in person, bring your own ID. The subject’s permission is not required. However, some third-party sites may ask for your purpose, but official sources do not.
How long does it take to get a record?
Online searches give instant results for records older than 60 days. In-person requests for recent arrests are processed the same day if all documents are correct. Mail requests take 5–10 business days. Certified copies may take longer due to notary steps. Call (813) 276-3250 to check status.
Are juvenile arrest records public?
No. Juvenile records are not public in Florida. Only law enforcement, courts, and certain agencies can access them. Parents or guardians may request copies for legal cases, but they need a court order. These files are never posted online or released without judicial approval.
What if my record has wrong information?
If your arrest record shows false details, contact the Records Section at (813) 274-8211. For identity theft, use the Identity-Theft Form at the Sheriff’s Identification Section. Bring a notarized affidavit, photo ID, and proof like a police report. The office will hide the record during review and correct errors within 14 days.
Can I remove my arrest record from the internet?
You cannot remove public records from official sites, but you can seal or expunge them through FDLE. Once approved, the record is hidden from public view. Third-party sites may still show old data. Ask them to update or remove it, but they are not required to comply. Focus on official corrections first.
Do I need a lawyer to get arrest records?
No. Anyone can request Tampa Police Arrest Records without a lawyer. Forms are free, and staff help with questions. Lawyers are only needed for expungement, sealing, or lawsuits. For simple requests, go to the Records Division or use the online portal.
Are mugshots part of the public record?
Yes, mugshots are public and appear on the HCSO website and third-party sites. They are taken at booking and kept in the arrest file. Some sites charge to remove them, but this does not change their status as public records. Only expungement removes them from official databases.