Bulloch County Public Records / Bulloch County Arrest Records

Bulloch County Arrest Records

Are Arrest Records Public in Bulloch County

Arrest records in Bulloch County are considered public information under the Georgia Open Records Act (O.C.G.A. § 50-18-70 et seq.). This statute establishes that public records, including those created, maintained, or received by a public agency in Georgia, shall be available for inspection by any member of the public.

The Georgia Open Records Act specifically addresses law enforcement records, including arrest records, booking photographs, and incident reports. Pursuant to O.C.G.A. § 50-18-72(a)(4), certain law enforcement records may be temporarily withheld during pending investigations; however, basic arrest information remains accessible to the public.

It is important to note the distinction between arrest records and conviction records:

Arrest records document that an individual was taken into custody by law enforcement based on probable cause that they committed a crime. An arrest does not constitute a finding of guilt.
Conviction records indicate that an individual has been found guilty of a crime through a legal proceeding, either by trial or plea.

The Bulloch County Sheriff's Office maintains arrest records for the county and processes requests for these records in accordance with state law. Under Georgia's First Offender Act (O.C.G.A. § 42-8-60), certain first-time offenders who successfully complete their sentence may have their records protected from public disclosure, representing one of the few exceptions to public access.

What's in Bulloch County Arrest Records

Bulloch County arrest records contain comprehensive information about individuals who have been taken into custody by law enforcement agencies within the county. These records typically include the following categories of information:

Arrestee Identifying Information:

Full legal name (including aliases or known nicknames)
Date of birth
Gender
Race/ethnicity
Physical description (height, weight, eye color, hair color)
Identifying marks (tattoos, scars, etc.)
Residential address
Photograph (mugshot)
Fingerprints

Arrest Details:

Date and time of arrest
Location of arrest
Arresting agency
Arresting officer's name and badge number
Circumstances leading to arrest

Charge Information:

Criminal charges filed
Statute or ordinance citations
Charge classification (felony, misdemeanor)
Charge severity level

Warrant Information (if applicable):

Warrant number
Issuing authority
Date issued
Type of warrant (arrest, bench, search)

Booking Information:

Booking number
Date and time of booking
Processing officer information
Property inventory

Bond/Bail Information:

Bond amount
Bond type (cash, property, surety)
Bond status (posted, denied, pending)
Conditions of release

Court Information:

Court of jurisdiction
Case number
Scheduled court appearances
Judge assigned

Custody Status:

Current detention status
Facility of incarceration
Expected release date (if applicable)
Custody level classification

Additional Information May Include:

Prior arrest history
Probation/parole status
Immigration holds
Medical alerts
Behavioral notes
Special housing requirements

The specific content of arrest records may vary based on the arresting agency's protocols and the nature of the arrest. All information contained in these records is subject to the disclosure provisions and exemptions outlined in the Georgia Open Records Act.

How To Look Up Arrest Records in Bulloch County in 2026

Members of the public seeking arrest records in Bulloch County may utilize several methods to access this information. The county maintains a structured process for requesting and obtaining these public records:

Submit a formal open records request to the Bulloch County Sheriff's Office. Requesters must complete the official Open Records Request Form, which can be obtained:
- In person at the Sheriff's Office
- Downloaded from the Sheriff's Office website
- Requested via email
Provide specific information about the record being sought, including:
- Full name of the individual
- Date of birth or approximate age
- Date of arrest (if known)
- Case number (if available)
Submit the completed request through one of the following methods:
- In person at the Bulloch County Sheriff's Office
- By mail to the Records Division
- By email to the designated records custodian
- By fax to the Records Division
Pay applicable fees for record retrieval and copying. Currently, the Sheriff's Office charges:
- $0.10 per page for standard copies
- Additional fees may apply for certified copies
- Research fees may apply for requests requiring extensive staff time
Receive notification within three business days regarding:
- Availability of requested records
- Estimated cost for production
- Timeline for fulfillment
- Any legal exemptions that may apply
Arrange for receipt of records through:
- In-person pickup
- Mail delivery
- Email (for electronic records)

Bulloch County Sheriff's Office
17257 Highway 301 North
Statesboro, GA 30458
(912) 764-8888
Bulloch County Sheriff's Office

For arrest records related to municipalities within Bulloch County, such as Statesboro, requesters may need to contact the respective police department directly.

Statesboro Police Department
25 West Grady Street
Statesboro, GA 30458
(912) 764-9911
Statesboro Police Department

Pursuant to O.C.G.A. § 50-18-71, agencies must respond to open records requests within three business days, though actual production of records may take longer depending on the scope of the request.

How To Find Bulloch County Arrest Records Online

Bulloch County provides several digital resources for accessing arrest records online. These electronic systems offer convenient alternatives to in-person requests:

Bulloch County Sheriff's Office Inmate Search - The Sheriff's Office maintains an online inmate search portal that provides information about currently incarcerated individuals and recent arrests. This database includes:
- Arrestee name and booking photo
- Booking date
- Charges
- Bond information
- Court dates
Georgia Department of Corrections Offender Search - For individuals who have been transferred to state custody, the Georgia Department of Corrections maintains a searchable database that includes:
- Current custody status
- Facility location
- Conviction information
- Sentence details
- Release eligibility dates
Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) Criminal History Record Information - The GBI provides access to official criminal history records through their GCIC portal, though fees apply and certain restrictions exist.
Bulloch County Clerk of Superior Court Records - Court records related to criminal cases can be accessed through the Clerk's Office online portal, which includes:
- Case filings
- Court proceedings
- Disposition information
- Sentencing records
Submit an electronic open records request through the Bulloch County Sheriff's Office website or the City of Statesboro records portal for arrests within city limits.

When using online systems, users should note:

Information may not be comprehensive or immediately updated
Some records may require additional verification
Certain sensitive information may be redacted
Technical limitations may affect search functionality

For the most accurate and complete information, users are encouraged to utilize the official request process through the appropriate agency's records division.

How To Search Bulloch County Arrest Records for Free?

Members of the public have several options for accessing Bulloch County arrest records without incurring fees:

Utilize the Bulloch County Sheriff's Office public terminals - Computer terminals are available at the Sheriff's Office for public use during regular business hours. These terminals provide access to:
- Basic arrest information
- Current inmate roster
- Recent booking data
- No fee is charged for self-service searches
Access the Bulloch County Sheriff's Office website - The Sheriff's Office maintains a free online inmate search function that provides limited information about current inmates and recent arrests.
Review court dockets at the Bulloch County Courthouse - The public may inspect court dockets in person at:

Bulloch County Clerk of Superior Court
30 North Main Street
Statesboro, GA 30458
(912) 764-6150
Bulloch County Clerk of Courts

Attend public court proceedings - Criminal court sessions are open to the public, and arrest information is often discussed during arraignments and other hearings.
Review public notices - Arrest information is sometimes published in:
- Local newspapers (print and online editions)
- Court bulletins
- Public safety announcements
Submit a targeted open records request - While extensive research requests may incur fees, narrowly defined requests for specific records may be fulfilled without charge if minimal resources are required for production.

It is important to note that while basic searches may be conducted without cost, fees may apply for:

Printed copies of records ($0.10 per page as established by O.C.G.A. § 50-18-71(c)(2))
Certified copies
Records requiring extensive research or redaction
Electronic media containing requested information

The Georgia Open Records Act permits agencies to charge reasonable fees to cover the cost of record production, but viewing records in person is typically available at no cost.

How To Delete Arrest Records in Bulloch County

The process of removing arrest records from public access in Bulloch County follows Georgia state law and involves distinct legal mechanisms:

Record Restriction (Sealing)

Under Georgia law, record restriction (formerly called expungement) limits public access to arrest records without completely destroying them. Pursuant to O.C.G.A. § 35-3-37, individuals may qualify for record restriction under specific circumstances:

Arrests that did not result in charges - If charges were never filed within the statute of limitations
Dismissed charges - When charges were dismissed or nolle prossed
Acquittals - Following a not guilty verdict at trial
First Offender Act completion - After successful completion of a first offender sentence under O.C.G.A. § 42-8-60
Conditional discharge completion - Following successful completion of a conditional discharge for certain offenses
Youthful offender provisions - For certain offenses committed before age 21

The process for requesting record restriction involves:

Obtaining and completing a Record Restriction Application from the arresting agency
Submitting the application to the Bulloch County Sheriff's Office or appropriate municipal police department
Paying applicable processing fees
Awaiting review by the prosecuting attorney's office
If approved, records will be restricted from public access but remain available to law enforcement

Complete Expungement

True expungement (complete deletion) of arrest records is extremely limited under Georgia law. Only in rare circumstances, such as identity theft cases where an innocent person's identity was used during an arrest, may complete expungement be considered.

Pardon Process

While not resulting in record deletion, a pardon from the Georgia State Board of Pardons and Paroles can officially forgive a conviction. This process:

Requires completion of a pardon application
Necessitates a five-year crime-free period after sentence completion
Does not remove the record but adds the pardon information

Individuals seeking to restrict or expunge records should consult with a qualified attorney, as the process is complex and subject to specific statutory requirements. The Bulloch County Clerk of Superior Court can provide information about the process but cannot offer legal advice.

What Happens After Arrest in Bulloch County?

Following an arrest in Bulloch County, individuals enter a structured criminal justice process governed by Georgia state law and local procedures:

Booking Process
- Arrestees are transported to the Bulloch County Jail
- Personal information is recorded
- Fingerprints and photographs are taken
- Personal property is inventoried and secured
- Medical screening is conducted
- Initial classification assessment determines housing assignment
First Appearance Hearing
- Occurs within 48-72 hours of arrest
- Judge informs the defendant of charges
- Constitutional rights are explained
- Bail determination is made
- Public defender may be appointed if defendant qualifies
- This hearing may be conducted via video conference from the jail
Bail/Bond Considerations
- Judge sets bail based on:
  - Nature and severity of charges
  - Criminal history
  - Flight risk assessment
  - Community ties
  - Public safety concerns
- Bond options include:
  - Cash bond
  - Property bond
  - Surety bond (through a bondsman)
  - Own recognizance release
- Certain serious offenses may result in bail denial
Preliminary Hearing
- Held to determine if probable cause exists to proceed with charges
- Prosecution presents evidence supporting the arrest
- Defense may challenge probable cause
- Judge determines if case should proceed
- May be waived by defendant
Formal Charging
- Misdemeanors: Accusation filed by prosecutor
- Felonies: Case presented to grand jury for indictment
- Grand jury determines if sufficient evidence exists to issue indictment
Arraignment
- Formal reading of charges
- Defendant enters plea (guilty, not guilty, nolo contendere)
- Trial date may be set
- Pretrial motions may be filed
Pretrial Proceedings
- Discovery exchange between prosecution and defense
- Motion hearings
- Plea negotiations
- Case management conferences
Trial or Plea Resolution
- Most cases resolve through plea agreements
- Trials may be jury trials or bench trials (judge only)
- Burden of proof is on prosecution to prove guilt beyond reasonable doubt
Sentencing
- Follows conviction (either by plea or trial verdict)
- May occur immediately or at later date
- Judge considers:
  - Statutory guidelines
  - Presentence investigation reports
  - Victim impact statements
  - Mitigating and aggravating factors
Post-Conviction
- Incarceration in county jail or state prison
- Probation supervision
- Payment of fines and restitution
- Completion of court-ordered programs
- Appeal rights explained

Throughout this process, defendants maintain constitutional rights under both federal and Georgia state law, including the right to counsel, the right against self-incrimination, and the right to due process.

How Long Are Arrest Records Kept in Bulloch County?

Arrest records in Bulloch County are maintained according to the Georgia Records Act and the specific retention schedules established for law enforcement agencies. These retention periods ensure proper documentation of law enforcement activities while balancing public access rights with privacy considerations.

The Georgia Records Act (O.C.G.A. § 50-18-90 et seq.) establishes the framework for records retention throughout the state. For law enforcement records specifically, the following retention periods generally apply:

Arrest Records and Related Documentation:

Felony arrests - Records are maintained permanently
Misdemeanor arrests - Records are typically retained for 7 years after case closure
Arrest warrants - Retained for 7 years after execution or expiration
Booking photographs (mugshots) - Maintained as part of the permanent arrest record for felonies; 7 years for misdemeanors
Fingerprint cards - Maintained permanently by the Georgia Bureau of Investigation
Incident reports - Retained for 7 years after case closure

Special Circumstances Affecting Retention:

Homicide cases - All records maintained permanently
Sex offenses - Records maintained for extended periods (typically 25 years to permanently)
Juvenile offender records - Subject to different retention requirements under O.C.G.A. § 15-11-701
Cold cases - Maintained indefinitely until resolved
Cases under appeal - Retained until all appeals are exhausted

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

Bulloch County Sheriff's Office - Maintains arrest records, booking information, and jail records
Municipal Police Departments - Maintain records of arrests within their jurisdictions
Bulloch County Clerk of Superior Court - Maintains court records related to criminal cases
Georgia Bureau of Investigation - Maintains the central repository of criminal history information
Georgia Department of Corrections - Maintains records of individuals sentenced to state custody

It is important to note that even after physical records reach their retention period, electronic information may be maintained in databases for longer periods. Additionally, records that have been published or distributed (such as in news reports or third-party websites) may persist beyond official retention periods.

The retention of arrest records serves several important public interests:

Preserves evidence for ongoing and future investigations
Maintains documentation for potential appeals
Provides information for background checks authorized by law
Ensures accountability in the criminal justice system
Supports statistical analysis and policy development

Individuals with concerns about their arrest records should consult with legal counsel regarding Georgia's record restriction provisions rather than relying on retention schedules for record elimination.

How to Find Mugshots in Bulloch County

What Mugshots Are

Mugshots, formally known as booking photographs, are official photographs taken during the arrest booking process. These images serve as visual identification records of individuals processed into the criminal justice system. In Bulloch County, mugshots are taken as part of the standard booking procedure at the county jail facility. Typically, these photographs include:

Front-facing (full face) view
Profile (side) view
Identification information displayed (booking number, date)

Where Mugshots Are Maintained

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

Bulloch County Sheriff's Office
17257 Highway 301 North
Statesboro, GA 30458
(912) 764-8888
Bulloch County Sheriff's Office

As the agency operating the county jail, the Sheriff's Office maintains the primary repository of booking photographs for all individuals processed through their facility, regardless of which agency made the arrest.

Municipal police departments may also maintain copies of mugshots for arrests they conduct, though individuals are typically transported to the county jail for booking.

Finding Mugshots

To obtain official copies of mugshots in Bulloch County, individuals may:

Submit an open records request to the Bulloch County Sheriff's Office specifically requesting booking photographs. Requests should include:
- Full name of the individual
- Date of birth
- Approximate date of arrest
- Case number (if known)
Complete the official request form available through the Sheriff's Office records division
Pay applicable fees for reproduction of photographs

Can They Be Found Online

The Bulloch County Sheriff's Office maintains an online inmate search function that may include booking photographs of currently incarcerated individuals. However, this database typically only displays current inmates and may not include historical booking photographs.

Third-party websites and commercial mugshot publishers may also post booking photographs obtained through public records requests. However, the accuracy and currency of information on these sites cannot be guaranteed by county officials.

Obtaining Mugshots Officially

The most reliable method for obtaining accurate mugshot records is through the official records request process with the Bulloch County Sheriff's Office. Pursuant to the Georgia Open Records Act, the Sheriff's Office will respond to requests within three business days, though actual production may take longer depending on the scope of the request.

Restrictions on Mugshot Access

While mugshots are generally considered public records under Georgia law, certain restrictions may apply:

Juvenile mugshots (under age 17) are typically not public records
Mugshots subject to record restriction under O.C.G.A. § 35-3-37 may not be accessible
Mugshots in active investigations may be temporarily withheld
First Offender Act cases that have been successfully completed may have restricted mugshots

Georgia law (O.C.G.A. § 35-1-19) also places restrictions on websites that charge fees for removing mugshots, making it unlawful for such sites to continue publishing mugshots after receiving notification that charges were dismissed or the individual was exonerated.