Muskegon Public Records / Muskegon County Arrest Records

Muskegon County Arrest Records

Are Arrest Records Public in Muskegon County

Arrest records in Muskegon County are generally considered public information under Michigan law. The Michigan Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), specifically MCL § 15.231, establishes that all persons are entitled to complete information regarding governmental affairs and official acts of public officials and employees. This statutory framework provides the legal basis for public access to arrest records maintained by law enforcement agencies in Muskegon County.

It is important to distinguish between arrest records and conviction records. An arrest record documents that an individual was taken into custody by law enforcement based on probable cause that they committed a crime. A conviction record, by contrast, indicates that the individual was found guilty of a criminal offense through the judicial process. Under Michigan law, both types of records are generally accessible to the public, though certain exceptions apply.

The Michigan State Police maintains the state's criminal history record repository and provides guidance on records access. According to state policy, while arrest records are public, certain information within these records may be exempt from disclosure under specific provisions of FOIA or other applicable laws. These exemptions typically protect sensitive personal information, ongoing investigations, or information that might compromise public safety if released.

Pursuant to MCL § 15.243, law enforcement agencies may withhold certain information from arrest records, including:

Information of a personal nature where disclosure would constitute an unwarranted invasion of privacy
Information that would identify an informant
Information that would disclose investigative techniques or procedures
Information that would prejudice a law enforcement proceeding

Members of the public seeking arrest records in Muskegon County should be aware that while these records are generally accessible, the specific content available may be limited by these statutory exemptions.

What's in Muskegon County Arrest Records

Arrest records maintained by Muskegon County law enforcement agencies typically contain comprehensive documentation of an individual's encounter with the criminal justice system. The content of these records is standardized in accordance with Michigan law enforcement protocols and generally includes the following categories of information:

Arrestee Identifying Information:

Full legal name and any known aliases
Date of birth
Physical description (height, weight, eye color, hair color)
Gender
Race/ethnicity
Home address
Identifying marks such as tattoos or scars
Fingerprints
Photograph (mugshot)

Arrest Details:

Date and time of arrest
Location of arrest
Arresting agency
Names and badge numbers of arresting officers
Circumstances leading to arrest
Whether force was used during arrest

Charge Information:

Criminal charges filed
Statutory citations for alleged violations
Classification of charges (misdemeanor or felony)
Description of alleged criminal activity

Warrant Information (if applicable):

Warrant number
Issuing court
Date of issuance
Judge who signed the warrant

Booking Information:

Date and time of booking
Booking facility
Booking number
Property inventory
Medical screening information

Bond/Bail Information:

Bond amount
Bond type (cash, surety, personal recognizance)
Bond conditions
Whether bond was posted
Date of release if bond was posted

Court Information:

Court of jurisdiction
Case number
Scheduled court appearances
Name of assigned judge

Custody Status:

Current detention status
Facility where detained (if applicable)
Expected release date (if sentenced)

Additional Information May Include:

Prior criminal history
Known associates
Vehicle information
Employment information
Emergency contact information
Immigration status

The specific content of arrest records may vary depending on the arresting agency and the circumstances of the arrest. Records maintained by the Muskegon Police Department may differ slightly from those maintained by other law enforcement agencies within the county.

How To Look Up Arrest Records in Muskegon County in 2026

Members of the public seeking arrest records in Muskegon County may utilize several official channels to obtain this information. The following procedures are currently in place for accessing arrest records:

Submit a FOIA Request to the Arresting Agency

Individuals may submit a Freedom of Information Act request directly to the law enforcement agency that made the arrest. For arrests made by the Muskegon Police Department, requests can be submitted through their Report Request system.

Muskegon Police Department
980 Jefferson Street
Muskegon, MI 49440
(231) 724-6750
Muskegon Police Department

The request should include:
- Full name of the arrested individual
- Date of birth (if known)
- Approximate date of arrest
- Case number (if known)
- Requestor's contact information
Visit the Muskegon County Sheriff's Office

For arrests made by the Sheriff's Office, individuals may visit in person to request records.

Muskegon County Sheriff's Office
990 Terrace Street
Muskegon, MI 49442
(231) 724-6351
Muskegon County Sheriff's Office

Office hours: Monday through Friday, 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM
Contact the Muskegon County Prosecutor's Office

For information about charges filed following an arrest:

Muskegon County Prosecutor's Office
990 Terrace Street, 5th Floor
Muskegon, MI 49442
(231) 724-6435
Muskegon County Prosecutor's Office
Check Court Records

Once charges have been filed, arrest information becomes part of the court record and can be accessed through:

60th District Court
990 Terrace Street
Muskegon, MI 49442
(231) 724-6283
60th District Court

14th Circuit Court
990 Terrace Street
Muskegon, MI 49442
(231) 724-6251
14th Circuit Court

When requesting arrest records, requestors should be prepared to pay applicable fees for search, retrieval, and copying services. Pursuant to Michigan FOIA provisions, agencies may charge reasonable fees for providing copies of public records. Fee schedules are typically available on agency websites or upon request.

How To Find Muskegon County Arrest Records Online

Muskegon County residents and other interested parties may access certain arrest record information through various online platforms maintained by state and local government agencies. The following digital resources are currently available for conducting online searches:

Michigan Courts Case Search

The MiCOURT Case Search system provides access to court records from participating courts throughout Michigan, including Muskegon County courts. Users can search by name to locate case information related to arrests that have resulted in court proceedings. The system includes:
- Case numbers
- Charges filed
- Court dates
- Case status
- Disposition information
This resource is particularly useful for tracking cases that have progressed beyond the initial arrest stage.
Michigan Offender Tracking Information System (OTIS)

The OTIS database maintained by the Michigan Department of Corrections provides information about individuals who:
- Are currently incarcerated in a Michigan prison
- Are on parole or probation under MDOC supervision
- Have discharged from MDOC supervision within the last three years
OTIS searches require the individual's name and may provide information about the arrest that led to the current supervision status.
Muskegon County Sheriff's Inmate Search

The Muskegon County Sheriff's Office maintains an online inmate lookup system that provides information about individuals currently detained in the county jail. This resource can be used to confirm whether someone has been recently arrested and is in custody.
Michigan State Police ICHAT

The Internet Criminal History Access Tool (ICHAT) provided by the Michigan State Police Criminal History Records division allows users to conduct criminal background checks for a fee. ICHAT searches provide information about:
- Felony and serious misdemeanor convictions
- Pending felony and serious misdemeanor charges
- Disposition of charges
ICHAT requires the creation of an account and payment of a fee for each search conducted.

When using online resources to access arrest records, users should be aware that:

Information may not be comprehensive or current
Some records may be sealed or expunged and therefore not available online
Certain identifying information may be redacted
Online systems may not include arrests that did not result in charges or convictions

For the most complete and accurate information, individuals are advised to submit formal requests directly to the appropriate law enforcement agency as outlined in the previous section.

How To Search Muskegon County Arrest Records for Free?

Members of the public seeking no-cost access to Muskegon County arrest records have several options available. The following methods provide free or low-cost alternatives to fee-based record searches:

Visit the Muskegon County Clerk's Office

The County Clerk maintains court records that often contain information about arrests that led to court proceedings. In-person visits allow for free review of public records.

Muskegon County Clerk
990 Terrace Street, 1st Floor
Muskegon, MI 49442
(231) 724-6221
Muskegon County Clerk

Office hours: Monday through Friday, 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM
Use Public Access Terminals at Local Courts

Both the 60th District Court and 14th Circuit Court provide public access computer terminals where visitors can search court records at no charge. These terminals are available during regular business hours.
Check the Muskegon County Sheriff's Online Inmate Lookup

The Sheriff's Office maintains a free online database of current inmates, which can be used to verify recent arrests and detention status.
Review Public Court Calendars

Court dockets and calendars are public documents that list scheduled court appearances, including arraignments following arrests. These calendars are typically posted at the courthouse and may be available on court websites.
Attend Public Court Proceedings

Court hearings, including arraignments where arrest information is discussed, are generally open to the public. Attending these proceedings provides free access to information about recent arrests.
Public Library Resources

The Hackley Public Library and other local libraries may provide free access to public records databases or assistance with navigating government websites.

Hackley Public Library
316 W Webster Avenue
Muskegon, MI 49440
(231) 722-8000
Hackley Public Library
Submit a FOIA Request with Fee Waiver

Under MCL § 15.234(2), public agencies may waive or reduce FOIA fees if a waiver or reduction is in the public interest because furnishing the information primarily benefits the general public. Individuals experiencing financial hardship may request a fee waiver when submitting FOIA requests for arrest records.

When utilizing these free resources, requestors should be prepared to provide identifying information about the subject of the search, including full name and, if possible, date of birth. It is important to note that while review of records may be free, agencies typically charge for copies of documents. Additionally, some records may be subject to redaction or withholding under applicable exemptions to public disclosure laws.

How To Delete Arrest Records in Muskegon County

Michigan law provides specific mechanisms for the removal or restriction of arrest records from public access under certain circumstances. The process involves either expungement (legal erasure) or sealing (restricting public access) of records. These distinct legal remedies have different eligibility requirements and outcomes:

Expungement (Setting Aside a Conviction)

Expungement is the legal process that allows for the removal of criminal records from public view. In Michigan, this process is governed by MCL § 780.621, known as the "Setting Aside Convictions" statute. Under current law:

Individuals may apply to have certain convictions set aside if:
- They have no more than one felony conviction and no more than two misdemeanor convictions
- At least five years have passed since the date of conviction, release from imprisonment, or discharge from probation/parole (whichever occurred last)
- The conviction is eligible for expungement (certain serious offenses are ineligible)
For arrests that did not result in conviction:
- Records may be expunged immediately if charges were dismissed or the individual was acquitted
- The process requires filing an application with the court where the case was handled

Sealing of Records

In some cases, records may be sealed rather than expunged. Sealed records remain in existence but are not accessible to the general public. They remain available to law enforcement agencies and may be considered in future criminal proceedings.

Clean Slate Initiative

Michigan's "Clean Slate" legislation, which took effect in April 2023, provides for automatic expungement of certain eligible convictions without requiring an application. Under Public Act 193 of 2020:

Eligible misdemeanor convictions are automatically set aside seven years after sentencing
Eligible non-assaultive felonies are automatically set aside ten years after sentencing or release from custody
Up to two felony and four misdemeanor convictions may be automatically expunged

Process for Requesting Expungement in Muskegon County

Obtain a certified copy of conviction record from the court where the case was handled
Request a certified criminal history record from the Michigan State Police
Complete an Application to Set Aside Conviction form (MC 227)
File the application with the court where the conviction occurred
Pay the required filing fee (currently $50)
Serve copies of the application on the Michigan Attorney General, Muskegon County Prosecutor, and the law enforcement agency that made the arrest
Attend the scheduled court hearing

Individuals seeking to expunge or seal arrest records should be aware that the process can be complex and may benefit from legal assistance. The Muskegon County Bar Association can provide referrals to attorneys who specialize in expungement cases.

For arrests that did not result in charges or convictions, individuals may also contact the arresting agency directly to request removal of records under MCL § 28.243, which provides for the return of fingerprints and arrest cards in certain circumstances.

What Happens After Arrest in Muskegon County?

Following an arrest in Muskegon County, individuals enter a structured criminal justice process governed by Michigan law and local court procedures. This process typically progresses through several distinct phases:

1. Booking and Initial Detention

After physical arrest, individuals are transported to a detention facility, typically the Muskegon County Jail, where they undergo the booking process. This includes:

Photographing (mugshot)
Fingerprinting
Personal property inventory
Medical screening
Background check
Initial paperwork completion

2. Arraignment

Within 24-48 hours of arrest (excluding weekends and holidays), arrestees appear before a judge or magistrate for arraignment. During this proceeding:

Formal charges are read
Constitutional rights are explained
Bond/bail determination is made
Legal representation is addressed (appointment of public defender if needed)
Plea is entered (though typically "not guilty" at this stage)
Future court dates are scheduled

Arraignments in Muskegon County typically occur at the 60th District Court.

3. Pretrial Proceedings

Following arraignment, several pretrial events may occur:

Probable cause hearing (for felony cases)
Preliminary examination (for felony cases)
Discovery exchange between prosecution and defense
Pretrial conferences
Motion hearings
Plea negotiations

4. Case Disposition

Cases may be resolved through:

Dismissal of charges
Plea agreement
Trial (bench or jury)
Diversion programs (for eligible cases)

For felony cases that proceed beyond preliminary examination, the matter is bound over to the 14th Circuit Court for further proceedings.

5. Sentencing

If convicted through plea or trial, sentencing follows. Potential sentences include:

Incarceration (jail or prison)
Probation
Fines and costs
Community service
Treatment programs
Restitution to victims

The Michigan Department of Corrections oversees individuals sentenced to prison or placed on probation/parole.

6. Post-Conviction

Following conviction and sentencing, individuals may pursue:

Appeal of conviction or sentence
Motion for relief from judgment
Application for commutation or pardon
Expungement (after waiting period)

Throughout this process, arrest records are created and maintained by various agencies, including the arresting police department, county jail, prosecutor's office, and courts. These records become part of the individual's criminal history and are generally accessible to the public unless sealed or expunged through procedures outlined in previous sections.

The specific timeline and procedures may vary depending on the nature of the charges, court caseloads, and individual circumstances of each case.

How Long Are Arrest Records Kept in Muskegon County?

Arrest records in Muskegon County are subject to retention requirements established by Michigan state law and administrative rules. The Michigan State Records Retention and Disposal Schedule for law enforcement agencies, authorized under MCL § 399.811, establishes the minimum time periods for maintaining various types of criminal justice records.

Standard Retention Periods:

Arrest Records (General): Maintained for at least 7 years from the date of arrest
Felony Arrest Records: Maintained for at least 20 years from the date of arrest
Serious Misdemeanor Records: Maintained for at least 10 years from the date of arrest
Minor Misdemeanor Records: Maintained for at least 7 years from the date of arrest
Juvenile Arrest Records: Generally maintained until the individual reaches age 30, unless expunged earlier
Sex Offender Registration Records: Maintained for at least 5 years after the offender's death
Homicide Case Records: Maintained permanently

Different agencies within the criminal justice system maintain separate record systems with varying retention requirements:

Law Enforcement Agencies
- The Muskegon Police Department and other local police agencies maintain arrest reports, booking information, and investigation files according to the state retention schedule.
- Fingerprint records and photographs are typically maintained by the Michigan State Police in the state's central repository.
Court Records
- The 60th District Court and 14th Circuit Court maintain case files related to arrests according to the Michigan Court Records Retention and Disposal Schedule.
- Misdemeanor case files are typically retained for at least 10 years after case closure.
- Felony case files are typically retained for at least 25 years after case closure.
- Capital offense case files are retained permanently.
Corrections Records
- The Michigan Department of Corrections maintains records of individuals who were incarcerated or under supervision following conviction.
- These records are typically maintained for at least 10 years after the individual's discharge from all supervision.

It is important to note that even after the mandatory retention period expires, records may not be automatically destroyed. Many agencies maintain records for longer periods, particularly if storage space permits or if the records have historical or administrative value. Additionally, with the advent of digital record-keeping, many agencies have the capacity to retain electronic records indefinitely.

The retention of arrest records serves several important public policy purposes, including:

Preserving evidence for potential future legal proceedings
Enabling background checks for employment and licensing
Supporting law enforcement investigations
Maintaining statistical data for crime analysis
Ensuring accountability in the criminal justice system

Individuals concerned about the continued existence of their arrest records should consult the expungement and sealing procedures outlined in previous sections.

How to Find Mugshots in Muskegon County

What Mugshots Are

Mugshots, formally known as booking photographs, are official photographs taken by law enforcement agencies during the booking process following an arrest. These photographs typically include front-facing and profile (side) views of the arrested individual and are taken for identification purposes. Mugshots become part of the official arrest record maintained by the arresting agency.

Where Mugshots Are Maintained

In Muskegon County, mugshots are primarily maintained by:

The arresting law enforcement agency (Muskegon Police Department, Muskegon County Sheriff's Office, or other local police departments)
The Muskegon County Jail as part of booking records
The Michigan State Police central records repository

These photographs are considered law enforcement records and are maintained according to the same retention schedules that govern other arrest records, as outlined in the previous section.

Finding Mugshots

Individuals seeking access to mugshots in Muskegon County may utilize several methods:

Submit a FOIA Request: The primary official method for obtaining mugshots is to submit a Freedom of Information Act request to the law enforcement agency that made the arrest. The Muskegon Police Department accepts such requests through their records division.

Muskegon Police Department Records Division
980 Jefferson Street
Muskegon, MI 49440
(231) 724-6750
Muskegon Police Department
Contact the Muskegon County Sheriff's Office: For arrests made by the Sheriff's Office, requests should be directed to:

Muskegon County Sheriff's Office
990 Terrace Street
Muskegon, MI 49442
(231) 724-6351
Muskegon County Sheriff's Office

Can Mugshots Be Found Online?

The availability of mugshots online through official government sources is limited in Michigan. Unlike some states, Michigan does not maintain a public-facing database of booking photographs. However, mugshots may be available through:

Inmate Lookup Systems: Some county jails provide limited booking information, including photographs, for currently incarcerated individuals.
Michigan Department of Corrections: The Offender Search system includes photographs of individuals currently under MDOC supervision or who have been recently released.

Obtaining Mugshots Officially

When requesting mugshots through official channels, requestors should:

Provide specific identifying information about the subject (full name, date of birth, approximate date of arrest)
Specify that the booking photograph is being requested
Be prepared to pay applicable fees for search and copying services
Complete any required forms provided by the agency

Restrictions on Mugshot Access

Access to mugshots may be restricted under certain circumstances, including:

Juvenile Records: Photographs of juvenile arrestees (under age 17) are generally not public records unless the juvenile was charged as an adult.
Expunged Records: If an arrest record has been expunged pursuant to MCL § 780.621, the associated mugshot should no longer be accessible to the public.
Ongoing Investigations: Photographs related to active investigations may be temporarily withheld under FOIA exemptions.
Privacy Concerns: In some cases, agencies may redact or withhold mugshots if release would constitute an unwarranted invasion of privacy that outweighs the public interest in disclosure.

The Michigan FOIA process provides for appeals if a request for mugshots or other arrest records is denied. Requestors have the right to appeal to the head of the public body or file a civil action in circuit court to compel disclosure of improperly withheld records.