Missouri criminal records are a crucial aspect of the state's law enforcement and judicial system. These records contain information about individuals who have been arrested, charged, and convicted of crimes within the state. Understanding Missouri criminal records is essential for various purposes, including background checks, employment screening, and personal safety. Here are 10 key facts to know about Missouri criminal records:
Overview of Missouri Criminal Records
Missouri criminal records are maintained by the Missouri State Highway Patrol’s Criminal Justice Information Services (CJIS) division. The CJIS is responsible for collecting, storing, and disseminating criminal history information to authorized agencies and individuals. Missouri criminal records typically include information such as the individual’s name, date of birth, arrest date, charge, disposition, and sentence.
Types of Missouri Criminal Records
There are several types of Missouri criminal records, including:
- Fingerprint-based records: These records are created when an individual is fingerprinted during the booking process.
- Name-based records: These records are created when an individual is identified by name, but not fingerprinted.
- Arrest records: These records document an individual’s arrest, including the date, time, and location of the arrest.
- Conviction records: These records document an individual’s conviction, including the date, time, and location of the conviction.
Missouri criminal records also include information about felonies and misdemeanors, which are classified based on the severity of the offense. Felonies are more serious crimes that carry harsher penalties, while misdemeanors are less serious crimes that carry lighter penalties.
Accessing Missouri Criminal Records
Missouri criminal records are available to the public, but access is restricted to authorized individuals and agencies. The CJIS provides criminal history information to:
- Law enforcement agencies
- Courts
- Prosecutors
- Defense attorneys
- Employers (with the individual’s consent)
Individuals can also request a copy of their own Missouri criminal record by submitting a fingerprint-based request to the CJIS. The request must include the individual's name, date of birth, and a set of fingerprints.
Sealing and Expunging Missouri Criminal Records
Missouri allows individuals to seal or expunge their criminal records under certain circumstances. Sealing a record means that it is removed from public access, but still maintained by the CJIS. Expunging a record means that it is completely destroyed. To be eligible for sealing or expunging, an individual must meet specific criteria, such as:
- The charge was dismissed or the individual was found not guilty
- The individual completed a diversion program
- The individual was convicted of a misdemeanor and has completed their sentence
Individuals who are eligible to seal or expunge their Missouri criminal record must petition the court and provide supporting documentation.
Missouri Criminal Records and Employment
Missouri criminal records can impact an individual’s employment opportunities. Employers are allowed to conduct background checks on job applicants, and a criminal record can be a factor in the hiring decision. However, employers must comply with federal and state laws, such as the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA), when conducting background checks.
Individuals with a Missouri criminal record may be eligible for expungement or sealing of their record, which can help to improve their employment prospects. Additionally, some employers may be willing to consider hiring individuals with a criminal record, depending on the nature of the offense and the individual's qualifications.
Missouri Criminal Records and Personal Safety
Missouri criminal records can also be used to protect personal safety. Individuals can use online resources, such as the Missouri Sex Offender Registry, to search for individuals with a history of violent or predatory offenses. This information can be useful for:
- Parents who want to screen potential babysitters or childcare workers
- Homeowners who want to research their neighbors
- Individuals who want to research a potential dating partner
However, it is essential to use this information responsibly and in accordance with Missouri law.
| Category | Description |
|---|---|
| Fingerprint-based records | Created when an individual is fingerprinted during the booking process |
| Name-based records | Created when an individual is identified by name, but not fingerprinted |
| Arrest records | Document an individual's arrest, including the date, time, and location of the arrest |
| Conviction records | Document an individual's conviction, including the date, time, and location of the conviction |
What is the purpose of Missouri criminal records?
+Missouri criminal records are used to maintain a database of individuals who have been arrested, charged, and convicted of crimes within the state. This information is used for various purposes, including background checks, employment screening, and personal safety.
How can I access my Missouri criminal record?
+You can request a copy of your Missouri criminal record by submitting a fingerprint-based request to the CJIS. The request must include your name, date of birth, and a set of fingerprints.
Can I seal or expunge my Missouri criminal record?
+Yes, you may be eligible to seal or expunge your Missouri criminal record under certain circumstances. You must meet specific criteria, such as the charge being dismissed or you being found not guilty, and petition the court with supporting documentation.
How do Missouri criminal records impact employment opportunities?
+Missouri criminal records can impact employment opportunities, as employers may conduct background checks on job applicants. However, employers must comply with federal and state laws, such as the FCRA, when conducting background checks. Individuals with a Missouri criminal record may be eligible for expungement or sealing of their record, which can help to improve their employment prospects.
Can I use Missouri criminal records to protect personal safety?
+Yes, you can use Missouri criminal records to protect personal safety by searching for individuals with a history of violent or predatory offenses. This information can be useful for parents, homeowners, and individuals who want to research a potential dating partner. However, it is essential to use this information responsibly and in accordance with Missouri law.
