Craven Public Records / Craven County Arrest Records

Craven County Arrest Records

Are Arrest Records Public in Craven County

Arrest records in Craven County are considered public information under North Carolina law. Pursuant to the North Carolina Public Records Act, specifically § 132-1, public records 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, made or received pursuant to law or ordinance in connection with the transaction of public business by any agency of North Carolina government or its subdivisions."

The distinction between arrest records and conviction records is significant. Arrest records document the apprehension and booking of an individual suspected of a crime, while conviction records indicate that a court has found the individual guilty of the charged offense. Under North Carolina law, both types of records are generally accessible to the public, though certain exceptions may apply.

The North Carolina Department of Public Safety maintains policies governing law enforcement records access at the state level, while the Craven County Sheriff's Office administers local arrest records. It is important to note that while arrest records are public, certain information within these records may be redacted to protect ongoing investigations or personal identifying information as specified in § 132-1.4 of the North Carolina General Statutes.

What's in Craven County Arrest Records

Craven County arrest records contain comprehensive information about individuals who have been taken into custody. These records typically include the following categories of information:

Arrestee Identifying Information:

Full legal name (first, middle, last)
Date of birth
Gender
Race/ethnicity
Height and weight
Address (may be partially redacted in public versions)
Identifying marks such as tattoos or scars
Booking photograph (mugshot)

Arrest Details:

Date and time of arrest
Location of arrest
Arresting agency (e.g., Craven County Sheriff's Office, New Bern Police Department)
Arresting officer's name and badge number
Circumstances of arrest

Charge Information:

Criminal charges filed
Statute numbers of alleged violations
Classification of charges (misdemeanor or felony)
Description of alleged offenses

Warrant Information (if applicable):

Warrant number
Issuing authority
Date issued
Serving officer

Booking Information:

Booking number
Date and time of booking
Booking facility
Fingerprint identification number

Bond/Bail Information:

Bond amount
Bond type (cash, surety, etc.)
Bond status (posted, denied, etc.)
Conditions of release, if applicable

Court Information:

Court case number
Scheduled court date
Court location
Judge assigned (if known)

Custody Status:

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

Additional Information May Include:

Prior arrest history
Probation/parole status
Vehicle information related to arrest
Property seized during arrest
Victim information (often redacted in public records)

The specific content of arrest records may vary depending on the arresting agency and the circumstances of the arrest. Certain sensitive information may be redacted from public versions of these records in accordance with North Carolina privacy laws.

How To Look Up Arrest Records in Craven County in 2026

Members of the public seeking arrest records in Craven County may utilize several methods to access this information. The following procedures are currently in effect for obtaining arrest records:

Visit the Craven County Sheriff's Office in person:

Craven County Sheriff's Office
1100 Clarks Road
New Bern, NC 28562
(252) 636-6620
Craven County Sheriff's Office

Public counter hours: Monday through Friday, 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM

Requestors should bring valid government-issued photo identification and be prepared to complete a records request form. Staff will assist with locating the specific records needed.
Submit a written request:

Written requests may be submitted via mail to the Sheriff's Office address listed above. Requests should include:
- Full name of the individual in the record
- Date of birth or approximate age
- Date or approximate date of arrest
- Requestor's contact information
- Copy of requestor's identification
Pursuant to § 132-6.2(a) of the North Carolina General Statutes, agencies must respond to public records requests "as promptly as possible."
Check the active bookings database:

The Craven County Sheriff's Office maintains an online database of current inmate bookings that is updated regularly. This resource provides basic information about individuals currently in custody.
Contact the Clerk of Superior Court:

Craven County Clerk of Superior Court
302 Broad Street
New Bern, NC 28560
(252) 639-3000
North Carolina Judicial Branch

Office hours: Monday through Friday, 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM

The Clerk's office maintains court records related to arrests and can provide information about case status and dispositions.
Submit a request to the arresting agency:

If the arrest was made by a municipal police department rather than the Sheriff's Office, contact that agency directly. For example:

New Bern Police Department
601 George Street
New Bern, NC 28560
(252) 672-4100
New Bern Police Department

When requesting arrest records, be advised that fees may apply for copies of documents. The current fee structure is established pursuant to § 132-6.2(b) of the North Carolina General Statutes.

How To Find Craven County Arrest Records Online

Craven County provides several digital resources for accessing arrest records online. The following methods allow members of the public to search for arrest information electronically:

Craven County Sheriff's Office Active Bookings:

The active bookings database maintained by the Craven County Sheriff's Office provides real-time information about individuals currently in custody. This searchable database includes:
- Inmate name
- Booking date
- Charges
- Bond amounts
- Court dates
This resource is limited to current inmates and does not include historical arrest records.
North Carolina Department of Public Safety Offender Search:

The North Carolina Offender Public Information Search allows users to search for information about individuals who have been processed through the state correctional system. This database includes:
- Current inmates
- Probationers
- Parolees
- Post-release supervisees
- Absconders
Users can search by name or offender ID number to access information about individuals who have been convicted and sentenced.
North Carolina Court System Records:

The North Carolina Judicial Branch offers online access to court records through its public records portal. Users can search for:
- Criminal case information
- Court dates
- Case status
- Disposition information
This system provides information about court proceedings related to arrests but may not include detailed arrest information.
Craven County Sheriff's Office Website:

The Craven County Sheriff's Office website provides information about recent arrests and inmates currently in custody. The site includes links to:
- Inmate listings
- Most wanted individuals
- Recent arrest reports
This resource is updated regularly but may not include comprehensive historical records.

When using online resources to access arrest records, users should be aware that the information provided may be limited and should be verified through official channels for complete accuracy. Additionally, some online systems may require registration or impose usage limitations.

How To Search Craven County Arrest Records for Free?

Members of the public may access Craven County arrest records without charge through several methods. The following options are available for free searches:

Use Public Access Terminals at the Courthouse:

Craven County Courthouse
302 Broad Street
New Bern, NC 28560
(252) 639-3000

Public access computers are available in the Clerk of Court's office during regular business hours (Monday through Friday, 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM). These terminals provide free access to the North Carolina Court Information System, which contains information about criminal cases including arrests.
Visit the Sheriff's Office Records Division:

Craven County Sheriff's Office
1100 Clarks Road
New Bern, NC 28562
(252) 636-6620

The Records Division allows in-person inspection of public arrest records at no charge during regular business hours. While copies may incur fees, viewing the records is free.
Access the Online Active Bookings Database:

The Craven County active bookings database is accessible online at no cost. This resource provides information about current inmates including:
- Names
- Charges
- Booking dates
- Bond amounts
- Court dates
Use the North Carolina Offender Public Information Search:

The North Carolina Department of Public Safety maintains a free online database of offender information. This resource includes individuals who have been processed through the state correctional system.
Check Local Library Resources:

New Bern-Craven County Public Library
400 Johnson Street
New Bern, NC 28560
(252) 638-7800

The public library provides free internet access and may assist patrons in accessing public records online.
Review Published Police Reports:

Local newspapers and news websites often publish police reports and arrest information based on data provided by law enforcement agencies. These sources may include basic arrest information at no cost.

While basic searches are available at no charge, pursuant to § 132-6.2(b) of the North Carolina General Statutes, agencies may charge reasonable fees for copies of records or for extensive use of agency resources. Additionally, certified copies of records typically involve fees established by statute.

How To Delete Arrest Records in Craven County

In North Carolina, including Craven County, arrest records cannot be deleted in the traditional sense, but they may be eligible for expungement (legal erasure) or sealing (restricting public access) under specific circumstances. The distinction is important: expungement removes the record from public view and, in most cases, allows the individual to legally deny the arrest occurred, while sealing restricts access but does not completely remove the record.

Pursuant to North Carolina General Statutes § 15A-145 through § 15A-146, expungement may be available in the following situations:

Charges Dismissed or Not Guilty Verdicts:
- Individuals found not guilty or whose charges were dismissed may petition for expungement.
- The petition must be filed in the county where the charges originated.
First-Time Nonviolent Offenses:
- Certain first-time nonviolent misdemeanors and felonies may be eligible for expungement after waiting periods of 5-10 years, depending on the offense.
- The petitioner must have no other convictions (with limited exceptions).
Juvenile Records:
- Records of juvenile offenses may be eligible for expungement under different criteria.
Drug Offenses for Those Under 22:
- Certain drug possession offenses committed before age 22 may qualify for expungement.

The process for seeking expungement in Craven County involves these steps:

Obtain the appropriate petition form:
- Forms are available from the North Carolina Administrative Office of the Courts.
- Different forms exist for different types of expungements.
Complete the petition:
- Include all required information about the arrest and case.
- Obtain certified copies of court dispositions from the Clerk of Court.
File the petition with the Clerk of Superior Court:

Craven County Clerk of Superior Court
302 Broad Street
New Bern, NC 28560
(252) 639-3000
- Pay any required filing fees (fee waivers may be available for indigent petitioners).
- The clerk will assign a case number and forward the petition to a judge.
SBI and AOC Review:
- The petition is sent to the State Bureau of Investigation and Administrative Office of the Courts to verify eligibility.
- This process typically takes several months.
Judicial Review:
- A judge will review the petition and supporting documentation.
- If approved, an order of expungement will be issued.
Implementation of Expungement:
- The order is sent to all agencies with records of the arrest.
- These agencies must expunge their records as directed.

It is important to note that certain government agencies may still have access to expunged records for specific purposes, such as law enforcement investigations or judicial appointments. Additionally, expungement laws change periodically, so consulting with a legal professional about current eligibility requirements is advisable.

What Happens After Arrest in Craven County?

Following an arrest in Craven County, individuals enter a structured criminal justice process governed by North Carolina law. This process typically proceeds through the following stages:

Booking and Processing:
- The arrestee is transported to the Craven County Detention Center.
- During booking, officials record personal information, take fingerprints and photographs, conduct a search, and inventory personal property.
- The arrestee's information is entered into local and national databases.
- Health screening is conducted to identify immediate medical needs.
Initial Appearance:
- Within 48 hours of arrest (typically much sooner), the arrestee appears before a magistrate.
- The magistrate informs the individual of the charges and their rights.
- Bail or bond is set, unless the offense is non-bailable.
- For certain minor offenses, the magistrate may release the individual on a written promise to appear in court.
Pretrial Release or Detention:
- If bail is granted and posted, the individual is released pending trial.
- Those unable to post bail remain in the Craven County Detention Center.
- Conditions of release may include restrictions on travel, contact with alleged victims, or requirements for monitoring.
First Appearance (for felonies):
- Occurs within 96 hours of arrest for individuals who remain in custody.
- A district court judge reviews the charges and bail conditions.
- The judge determines if the defendant qualifies for court-appointed counsel.
Probable Cause Hearing (for felonies):
- Held within 15-30 days of the first appearance.
- The prosecutor must demonstrate probable cause that the defendant committed the crime.
- May be waived by the defendant.
Grand Jury Indictment (for felonies):
- The prosecutor presents evidence to a grand jury.
- If the grand jury finds sufficient evidence, they issue an indictment.
- Some cases may proceed by information rather than indictment.
Arraignment:
- The formal reading of charges in court.
- The defendant enters a plea (guilty, not guilty, no contest).
- Trial date is typically set at this time.
Pretrial Conferences and Motions:
- Attorneys may file motions regarding evidence or procedure.
- Plea negotiations often occur during this phase.
- Discovery of evidence takes place.
Trial:
- Misdemeanor trials occur in District Court.
- Felony trials take place in Superior Court.
- Defendants have the right to a jury trial or may opt for a bench trial (judge only).
- The prosecution must prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
Sentencing (if convicted):
- Occurs either immediately after conviction or at a later hearing.
- The judge determines the sentence based on North Carolina's structured sentencing guidelines.
- Factors considered include the offense class, prior criminal record, and aggravating or mitigating factors.
Appeal (if applicable):
- Defendants have the right to appeal convictions.
- Appeals from District Court go to Superior Court for a new trial.
- Appeals from Superior Court go to the North Carolina Court of Appeals.

Throughout this process, individuals have constitutional rights including the right to counsel, the right to remain silent, and the right to a fair and speedy trial. The timeline may vary depending on case complexity, court schedules, and other factors.

How Long Are Arrest Records Kept in Craven County?

Arrest records in Craven County are maintained according to the North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources Records Retention Schedule, which establishes mandatory retention periods for various types of law enforcement records. Under North Carolina General Statutes § 132-8, these schedules have the force of law and govern how long different agencies must preserve records.

The retention periods for arrest records vary by record type and maintaining agency:

Arrest Reports and Supporting Documentation:
- Basic arrest reports are typically retained for a minimum of 20 years.
- For serious felonies (including homicide, sexual assault, and arson), records may be maintained permanently.
- Misdemeanor arrest records are generally kept for 5-10 years, depending on the offense category.
Booking Records and Photographs:
- Booking information is typically retained for 5-10 years after the individual's release from custody.
- Mugshots follow the same retention schedule as the corresponding arrest records.
Fingerprint Records:
- Fingerprints are maintained in state and federal databases indefinitely unless expunged by court order.
- Physical fingerprint cards may be destroyed after digitization and verification.
Court Records Related to Arrests:
- Court records of criminal cases are typically maintained for 20 years to permanently, depending on the case type.
- Records of dismissed charges may be eligible for earlier destruction if expunged.
Detention Center Records:
- Inmate files are generally retained for 5 years after release.
- Medical records from incarceration are kept separately and maintained according to medical records retention requirements.

Different agencies within Craven County maintain separate record systems with varying retention requirements:

The Craven County Sheriff's Office maintains arrest reports, booking information, and investigation files.
The Clerk of Superior Court preserves court records related to criminal cases.
The Detention Center keeps records of inmate custody and care.
Municipal police departments maintain their own arrest records for cases they handle.

Records retention serves several important purposes:

Preserves evidence that may be needed for future legal proceedings
Maintains documentation for potential appeals or post-conviction relief
Provides accountability for law enforcement actions
Supports statistical analysis and policy development
Ensures historical documentation of significant cases

It is important to note that even after the mandatory retention period expires, some records may be preserved for historical or archival purposes, particularly those related to significant cases or individuals.

How to Find Mugshots in Craven County

What Mugshots Are

Mugshots, or booking photographs, are official photographs taken during the booking process following an arrest. These images typically show the front and side view of an arrestee's face and upper body. In Craven County, mugshots are created as part of the standard booking procedure at the Craven County Detention Center and serve as visual identification records within the criminal justice system.

Where Mugshots Are Maintained

Mugshots in Craven County are primarily maintained by the following agencies:

Craven County Sheriff's Office
1100 Clarks Road
New Bern, NC 28562
(252) 636-6620
Craven County Sheriff's Office

The Sheriff's Office maintains booking photographs as part of their arrest records. These images are stored in both digital and physical formats within the agency's records management system.

Craven County Detention Center
1100 Clarks Road
New Bern, NC 28562
(252) 636-6618
Craven County Detention Center

As the facility where booking takes place, the Detention Center creates and initially stores mugshots as part of the intake process.

Finding Mugshots

Members of the public seeking mugshots in Craven County have several options:

Submit a public records request to the Craven County Sheriff's Office Records Division. Requests should include:
- Full name of the individual
- Date of birth (if known)
- Approximate date of arrest
- Requestor's contact information
Visit the Sheriff's Office in person during regular business hours (Monday through Friday, 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM) to submit a records request.
Check the active bookings database for recently arrested individuals. This resource may include booking photographs of current inmates.

Can They Be Found Online

Craven County does provide limited online access to mugshots through the following channels:

The active bookings database may include photographs of currently incarcerated individuals.
The Sheriff's Office website may feature mugshots of recently arrested individuals or those on "most wanted" lists.

It is important to note that online availability is typically limited to current inmates or specific categories of wanted persons. Historical mugshots generally require a formal records request.

Obtaining Mugshots Officially

To officially obtain mugshots from Craven County authorities:

Submit a written public records request to the Sheriff's Office Records Division.
Pay any applicable fees for record reproduction. Pursuant to North Carolina General Statutes § 132-6.2, agencies may charge reasonable fees for copies of public records.
Provide proper identification when picking up requested records.

Restrictions on Mugshot Access

Access to mugshots in Craven County is subject to certain limitations:

Mugshots of juveniles (under 18) are generally not public records under North Carolina law.
Photographs related to ongoing investigations may be temporarily withheld.
Mugshots that have been expunged by court order are no longer accessible as public records.
Commercial use of mugshots, particularly for "mugshot websites" that charge removal fees, has been restricted by North Carolina General Statutes § 15A-150.

When seeking mugshots, requestors should be aware of these restrictions and the potential privacy implications of obtaining and using such images.

Lookup Arrest Records in Craven County

Craven County Detention Center information

Active bookings database for Craven County

Craven County Sheriff's Office records

New Bern Police Department information

North Carolina offender search database

North Carolina Department of Public Safety public records requests

North Carolina Judicial Branch criminal background check information

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