What is an Arrest Record in Idaho?
The Bureau of Criminal Identification (BCI) in Idaho is a linchpin in the state’s efforts to maintain law and order. The Bureau empowers law enforcement by providing necessary information and identification services, which influence the broader criminal justice process, from prosecution to adjudication.
The BCI has been designated as the authorized collector of crime history data in Idaho. It maintains the central database of arrest records, case dispositions, crime statistics, and fingerprints linked to criminal occurrences. It also coordinates with the State Public Safety and Security System and serves as a link between local law enforcement agencies and the National Crime Information Center (NCIC).
Criminal history records maintained by the BCI are sourced from all law enforcement and judicial agencies in the state. The Automated Fingerprint Identification System is fed information by various sheriffs’ departments, marking the start of the criminal information recording process.
Note: Arrests that are not backed by fingerprints are not included in the central crime history database. Thus, sometimes arrest records are available only at the local law enforcement level.
The BCI serves both criminal justice agencies and the general public. Since Idaho is a member of the Western Identification Network, a warrant search through the BCI includes results from Alaska, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, Oregon, Utah, Washington, Wyoming, and even California (excluding federal data).
Idaho Law Section 67-3008 states that private persons and agencies can request information from the BCI for background checks. This information can be used for employment, licensing, or personal inquiries. The BCI offers both fingerprint and name-based searches for arrest records, with fingerprint searches being more reliable but requiring signed consent.
What is an Arrest Warrant?
Title 19 of the Criminal Procedure of Idaho deals with the process of issuing arrest warrants. Section 19-501 outlines that a complaint for the release of an arrest warrant must be made in writing to show probable cause to suspect a person in a public offense.
A magistrate can issue an arrest warrant if probable cause is established. Arrest warrants from Idaho are directed at all law enforcement agents in the country and can be served anywhere. Once issued, arrest warrants remain in effect perpetually.
How to Search for an Inmate in the Idaho Prison System?
The Idaho Department of Corrections (IDOC) handles juvenile and adult convicts. Their website can be used to search for prisoners who are currently serving or have been recently released.
To search, you will need the name or DOC offender number. Visit the IDOC Offender Search page and input the information to get the results. Alternatively, you can write or visit the Records Bureau at:
Idaho Department of Correction, 1299 N. Orchard Street, Suite 110, Boise, ID 83706.
Who Can Search for Arrest Records and Warrants in Idaho?
Idaho is an open records state, meaning criminal history information is accessible to the public within reason. Inquiries can be made with or without the consent of the subject, but details will be limited without consent.
Complete criminal history includes details of detentions from cases that ended in acquittal or dismissal. These inquiries can be initiated based on the subject’s name or fingerprints.
How To Request Records Under the Idaho Public Records Act?
To run a name-based search through the BCI, you will need the subject’s name, aliases, birth details, and contact information. The Name Check Form must be filled out and sent to the BCI with a fee of $20.
For a fingerprint inquiry, you can avail fingerprinting services at your local sheriff’s office or visit the Idaho State Police at 700 S. Stratford Dr., Suite 120, Meridian, ID. You will need to fill out the Fingerprint Request Form and send it with the applicable fees to:
BCI’s Applicant Unit, 700 S. Stratford Dr., Ste 120, Meridian, ID 83642.
How Long Does an Arrest Record or Warrant Stay on File in Idaho?
Arrest warrants in Idaho are not time-bound and remain valid until executed. An arrest warrant’s issuance marks the start of criminal proceedings, and these records remain on file until the case is concluded.
Idaho Arrest-Related Emergency Hotlines
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Emergency Services: 911 (For emergencies requiring police, fire, or medical response)
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Non-Emergency Police Numbers:
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Idaho State Police: (208) 884-7000
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Ada County Dispatch (Non-Emergency): (208) 377-6790
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Cassia County Sheriff’s Office (Non-Emergency): (208) 878-2251
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Specialized Hotlines:
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Crime Stoppers (Cassia County): (208) 878-2900
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Idaho State Police Records Department: (208) 209-8643
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Idaho State Police Public Affairs Office: (208) 884-7122
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