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Murray Arrest Records

Are Arrest Records Public in Murray, Kentucky?

Yes, arrest records are public in Murray, Kentucky. This accessibility is governed by the Kentucky Open Records Act (KRS 61.870 to 61.884), which establishes that all public records, unless specifically exempted by law, shall be available for inspection by any person. Arrest records maintained by the Murray Police Department and other law enforcement agencies within Calloway County fall under this provision. The Kentucky Open Records Act supports principles of governmental transparency and accountability by enabling citizens to access various governmental records, including those pertaining to arrests, bookings, and related law enforcement activities.

Pursuant to KRS 61.872, any person may request to inspect public records during regular office hours. The custodian of records may require a written application describing the records to be inspected. The statute further stipulates that agencies must respond to open records requests within five business days of receipt, either by providing the requested records or citing applicable exemptions if access is denied.

How to Look Up Murray Arrest Records in 2025

To obtain Murray arrest records in 2025, interested parties have several established methods to access these public documents. The Commonwealth of Kentucky provides multiple channels through which citizens may request and review arrest information:

  • In-Person Requests at Law Enforcement Agencies: Individuals may visit the Murray Police Department located at 407 Poplar Street, Murray, KY 42071 (270-753-1621) during regular business hours (Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM) to submit a records request. Similarly, the Calloway County Sheriff's Office at 701 Olive Street, Murray, KY 42071 (270-753-3151) maintains arrest records for areas within their jurisdiction.

  • Written Requests: Pursuant to KRS 61.872(2), citizens may submit written requests to the appropriate records custodian. Requests should include specific information such as the subject's full name, date of birth, and approximate date of arrest to facilitate record location.

  • Online Resources: The Calloway County Court System provides access to court records related to arrests through their online portal. Additionally, the City Clerk's Office maintains certain public records that may be requested through official channels.

  • National Incident-Based Reporting System (NIBRS): The Murray Police Department's annual reports contain statistical information about arrests and incidents, though these do not include individual arrest records.

Contents of a Murray Arrest Record

Murray arrest records typically contain comprehensive information as mandated by Kentucky state law and local ordinances. Standard arrest records include the following components:

  • Biographical Information: Full legal name, aliases if applicable, date of birth, physical description (height, weight, identifying marks), and residential address of the arrested individual.

  • Arrest Details: Date, time, and specific location of the arrest; name and badge number of the arresting officer(s); agency responsible for the arrest; and the method of arrest (warrant, probable cause, etc.).

  • Criminal Charges: Specific statutory violations cited at the time of arrest, including references to applicable sections of the Murray Code of Ordinances or Kentucky Revised Statutes.

  • Case Processing Information: Booking details, assigned case numbers, court docket information, scheduled appearance dates, and current status of the case within the judicial system.

  • Disposition Information: Final resolution of the case, including dismissals, convictions, sentences imposed, or other judicial determinations.

  • Bail/Bond Information: Amount set, payment status, and conditions of release if applicable.

Pursuant to KRS 17.150, law enforcement agencies are required to maintain complete records of arrests, which must be made available for inspection unless specifically exempted under provisions of the Kentucky Open Records Act.

Expungement of Arrest Records in Murray

In Murray, Kentucky, individuals may petition for expungement of arrest records under specific circumstances as provided by Kentucky law. Expungement is the legal process through which arrest and conviction records are removed from public access and, in some cases, physically destroyed. The process is governed by KRS Chapter 431, specifically §431.073-§431.079.

To qualify for expungement in Murray, applicants must meet the following criteria:

  • Eligibility Requirements: For arrest records where charges were dismissed or resulted in acquittal, individuals may apply for expungement 60 days after the final disposition. For certain Class D felonies and misdemeanors resulting in conviction, a waiting period of five years from completion of sentence or probation is required, during which the individual must remain free of additional criminal charges.

  • Filing Procedure: Eligible individuals must file a petition with the Calloway County Circuit Court located at 312 North 4th Street, Murray, KY 42071 (270-753-2714). The petition must include certified copies of relevant court records, a criminal background check obtained within 30 days of filing, and payment of the required filing fee (currently $100 for misdemeanors and $500 for felonies).

  • Judicial Review: Upon receipt of a properly filed petition, the court will schedule a hearing. The Commonwealth's Attorney and any victims involved in the case must be notified and given opportunity to present objections. The Code Enforcement Board may also provide input regarding violations of municipal ordinances.

  • Determination: The court will evaluate whether the petitioner meets all statutory requirements and whether the expungement serves the interests of justice. If granted, the court will issue an order directing all relevant agencies to expunge their records.

It should be noted that certain offenses are categorically ineligible for expungement under Kentucky law, including most violent crimes, sex offenses, and offenses against children. Additionally, expunged records may still be accessible to law enforcement agencies for specific purposes as outlined in KRS 431.076(4).

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