Yes, arrest records are public in Exeter, New Hampshire. This accessibility is governed by the state's Public Records Act, which mandates the disclosure of government records to the public. The principle behind this act is to maintain transparency and accountability in government operations, including law enforcement. Arrest records, therefore, are available to the public to inspect and review unless specifically exempted by law.
To get arrest records in Exeter, several methods are available, especially with advancements in digital access. Although specific details might vary, generally, the following options are utilized:
An Exeter arrest record typically includes the following information:
In Exeter, the expungement of arrest records is possible under certain conditions. Eligibility for expungement often depends on the nature of the crime, the time elapsed since the arrest, and the individual’s criminal history. The process typically involves filing a petition with the court that presided over the case. The court then reviews the petition, and if the criteria are met, it may order the arrest record to be sealed or destroyed, thus removing it from public access and official databases.