Bartholomew County Public Records / Bartholomew County Arrest Records

Bartholomew County Arrest Records

Are Arrest Records Public in Bartholomew County

Arrest records in Bartholomew County are considered public information under Indiana law. Pursuant to the Indiana Access to Public Records Act (APRA), codified under § 5-14-3, government records are presumed to be accessible to the public unless specifically exempted by law. The statute establishes that records of arrests, including the name of the person arrested, the arresting agency, and the factual circumstances surrounding the arrest, are explicitly designated as public information.

It is important for members of the public to understand the distinction between arrest records and conviction records. An arrest record documents that an individual was taken into custody by law enforcement based on probable cause that they committed a crime. A conviction record, by contrast, indicates that the individual was found guilty of a criminal offense through the judicial process. Under Indiana law, both types of records are generally accessible to the public, though with certain limitations.

The Indiana State Police maintains criminal history information, including arrests, pursuant to § 10-13-3 of the Indiana Code. While most arrest information is public, certain details may be restricted if disclosure would:

Interfere with ongoing law enforcement proceedings
Deprive a person of the right to a fair trial
Constitute an unwarranted invasion of personal privacy
Disclose confidential sources or investigative techniques

Bartholomew County law enforcement agencies follow these state guidelines when responding to requests for arrest records.

What's in Bartholomew County Arrest Records

Arrest records maintained by Bartholomew County law enforcement agencies contain standardized information documenting the apprehension and processing of individuals. The content of these records typically includes:

Arrestee Identifying Information:

Full legal name
Date of birth
Physical description (height, weight, eye color, hair color)
Home address
Identifying marks such as tattoos or scars
Fingerprints
Photograph (mugshot)

Arrest Details:

Date and time of arrest
Location of arrest
Arresting agency
Name and badge number of arresting officer(s)
Circumstances leading to arrest

Charge Information:

Criminal charges filed
Statutory citations of alleged violations
Classification of offense (misdemeanor or felony)
Description of alleged criminal activity

Warrant Information (if applicable):

Warrant number
Issuing court
Date of issuance
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, surety, personal recognizance)
Bond status (posted or not)
Release conditions

Court Information:

Court of jurisdiction
Case number
Scheduled court appearances
Judge assigned to case

Custody Status:

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

Additional Information May Include:

Prior arrest history
Known aliases
Vehicle information
Emergency contact information
Medical alerts or special needs

These records are maintained in accordance with Indiana Code § 5-14-3-5, which establishes requirements for the maintenance of public records by government agencies.

How To Look Up Arrest Records in Bartholomew County in 2026

Members of the public seeking arrest records in Bartholomew County may utilize several official channels to obtain this information. The following procedures are currently in effect for accessing arrest records:

Submit a request to the Bartholomew County Sheriff's Office

Bartholomew County Sheriff's Office
543 Second Street
Columbus, IN 47201
(812) 565-5940
Bartholomew County Sheriff's Office

Hours of Operation: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Requestors must complete a public records request form specifying the information sought. Valid government-issued identification is required when submitting requests in person.
Contact the Columbus Police Department Records Division

Columbus Police Department
123 Washington Street
Columbus, IN 47201
(812) 376-2600
Columbus Police Department

Hours of Operation: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

The Records Division processes requests for arrest records within city jurisdiction. Requestors should provide the name and date of birth of the subject, and approximate date of arrest if known.
Request Limited Criminal History from Indiana State Police

The Indiana State Police maintains a Limited Criminal History database that includes arrest information. Requests may be submitted online through the Indiana State Police website or by mail using the appropriate form. A fee of $7.00 is required for each name search.
Visit the Bartholomew County Clerk's Office

Bartholomew County Clerk's Office
234 Washington Street
Columbus, IN 47201
(812) 379-1600
Bartholomew County Clerk

Hours of Operation: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM

The Clerk's Office maintains court records related to criminal cases, which often contain information about arrests. Case records may be searched by name or case number.

When requesting arrest records, individuals should be prepared to provide:

Full name of the subject
Date of birth
Approximate date of arrest (if known)
Case number (if available)
Valid identification

Pursuant to Indiana Code § 5-14-3-8, agencies may charge reasonable fees for copying and search time associated with fulfilling public records requests.

How To Find Bartholomew County Arrest Records Online

Bartholomew County residents and other interested parties may access arrest records through several online platforms maintained by state and local agencies. The following digital resources are currently available for conducting arrest record searches:

myCase - Indiana Courts Online Portal

The Indiana Judicial Branch's public records portal provides access to court case information, including criminal cases resulting from arrests. Users can search by name, case number, or citation number. The system includes Bartholomew County court records and provides information on charges, hearing dates, and case dispositions.
Indiana Jail Management System Public Portal

The Indiana Jail Management System allows users to search for individuals currently incarcerated in county jails throughout Indiana, including the Bartholomew County Jail. Searches can be conducted using an individual's name and date of birth. The system provides booking information, charges, and custody status.
Indiana Department of Correction Offender Search

For individuals who have been transferred to state custody following arrest and conviction, the Indiana Department of Correction Offender Locator provides information on current incarceration status. This database includes individuals who have been sentenced to state prison facilities.
Indiana State Police Limited Criminal History

The Indiana State Police maintains an online system for requesting Limited Criminal History reports, which include arrest information. This service requires payment of a fee and creation of an account. Results include felony and Class A misdemeanor arrests within Indiana.
Bartholomew County Sheriff's Office Inmate Lookup

The Bartholomew County Sheriff's Office website provides a current inmate roster that is updated regularly. This resource allows users to view individuals currently detained in the county jail, including recent arrests.

When utilizing these online resources, users should note that:

Some systems may require creation of an account
Fees may apply for certain searches
Information may be limited based on privacy laws
Recent arrests may not appear immediately in all systems
Complete criminal history information may require formal requests

Online access to these records is governed by Indiana Code § 5-14-3-3, which establishes requirements for electronic access to public records.

How To Search Bartholomew County Arrest Records for Free?

Members of the public seeking no-cost access to Bartholomew County arrest records have several options available. The following methods provide free access to arrest information:

Visit the Bartholomew County Sheriff's Office in Person

Bartholomew County Sheriff's Office
543 Second Street
Columbus, IN 47201
(812) 565-5940

Hours of Operation: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM

The Sheriff's Office maintains a public terminal where visitors may search basic arrest information at no charge. While copying fees may apply for printed records, viewing information on-site is free.
Access the Indiana Jail Management System Public Portal

The Indiana Jail Management System provides free online access to current inmate information for county jails throughout Indiana, including Bartholomew County. This resource allows users to search for recently arrested individuals and those currently in custody.
Use the myCase Public Access System

The Indiana Judiciary's myCase portal offers free access to court case information, including criminal cases resulting from arrests. Users can search by name to locate cases in Bartholomew County courts without paying a fee.
Review Public Court Dockets

Bartholomew County Courthouse
234 Washington Street
Columbus, IN 47201
(812) 379-1600

Hours of Operation: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM

Court dockets are public documents that list scheduled hearings, including initial hearings following arrests. These documents can be viewed at no cost at the courthouse.
Monitor the Sheriff's Office Recent Booking Reports

The Bartholomew County Sheriff's Office periodically publishes booking reports on their website that include recent arrest information. These reports are available to the public at no charge.
Review Local News Sources

Local newspapers and news websites often publish information about significant arrests in Bartholomew County. While not comprehensive, these sources can provide free access to information about notable arrests.

When utilizing these free resources, individuals should be aware that:

Information may be limited compared to official record requests
Recent arrests may not appear immediately in all systems
Some systems may require in-person visits during business hours
Complete criminal history information may require formal requests

Access to these free resources is provided in accordance with Indiana's public records laws, specifically Indiana Code § 5-14-3-3(d), which requires agencies to provide at least one free method for inspecting public records.

How To Delete Arrest Records in Bartholomew County

Indiana law provides specific mechanisms for the restriction of arrest record access through expungement or sealing processes. These legal remedies differ significantly in their effect and eligibility requirements:

Expungement refers to the legal process of removing or erasing arrest and conviction records from public view. Under Indiana Code § 35-38-9, certain arrest and conviction records may be eligible for expungement.

Sealing restricts public access to records without completely removing them from government databases. Sealed records remain accessible to law enforcement agencies but are not visible to the general public.

Eligibility for expungement of arrest records in Bartholomew County depends on several factors:

Arrests without Charges or Convictions

If an individual was arrested but never charged with a crime, or if charges were dropped or dismissed, they may petition for expungement one year after the date of arrest or the date charges were dismissed, whichever is later.
Arrests Resulting in Diversion or Deferral Programs

Individuals who successfully completed pretrial diversion or deferral programs may petition for expungement five years after completing the program.
Arrests Resulting in Convictions

Expungement of conviction records follows a graduated timeline based on offense severity:
- Misdemeanors: Five years after conviction
- Class D or Level 6 felonies: Eight years after conviction
- More serious felonies: Eight to ten years after completion of sentence
- Certain violent or sex offenses: May be ineligible for expungement

The process for seeking expungement in Bartholomew County includes:

File a petition with the Bartholomew Circuit or Superior Court
Pay the required filing fee (fee waivers may be available)
Provide notice to the prosecutor's office
Attend a hearing if scheduled by the court
Receive the court's order regarding expungement

Bartholomew County Circuit Court
234 Washington Street
Columbus, IN 47201
(812) 379-1605

Bartholomew County Superior Court
234 Washington Street
Columbus, IN 47201
(812) 379-1623

Individuals seeking expungement should be aware that:

Legal assistance is strongly recommended
Filing fees apply unless waived by the court
Some offenses are ineligible for expungement
There are waiting periods before eligibility
The process may take several months to complete

The expungement process is governed by Indiana Code § 35-38-9, which establishes specific procedures and eligibility requirements for removing arrest records from public access.

What Happens After Arrest in Bartholomew County?

Following an arrest in Bartholomew County, individuals enter a structured criminal justice process governed by Indiana law. This process typically progresses through several defined stages:

Booking and Initial Detention

After physical arrest, individuals are transported to the Bartholomew County Jail for booking. This process includes:
- Photographing and fingerprinting
- Collection of personal information
- Property inventory
- Medical screening
- Assignment to appropriate housing
Bartholomew County Jail
543 Second Street
Columbus, IN 47201
(812) 565-5940
Initial Hearing

Within 48 hours of arrest (excluding weekends and holidays), arrestees appear before a judge for an initial hearing. During this proceeding:
- Formal charges are read
- Constitutional rights are explained
- Bail/bond is determined
- Public defender may be appointed if the defendant qualifies
- Preliminary plea is entered
Pretrial Release Determination

The court determines whether the defendant may be released pending trial. Options include:
- Release on personal recognizance
- Cash bail
- Surety bond
- Pretrial supervision
- Continued detention
Formal Charging Decision

The Bartholomew County Prosecutor's Office reviews the case and determines whether to file formal charges. This decision must typically be made within:
- 72 hours for misdemeanors
- 72 hours for felonies if the defendant is in custody
- 21 days for felonies if the defendant is not in custody
Bartholomew County Prosecutor's Office
234 Washington Street, Suite 122
Columbus, IN 47201
(812) 379-1530
Pretrial Proceedings

If formal charges are filed, the case proceeds through several pretrial stages:
- Discovery (exchange of evidence)
- Pretrial conferences
- Motion hearings
- Plea negotiations
Case Disposition

The case may be resolved through:
- Dismissal of charges
- Pretrial diversion program
- Guilty plea agreement
- Trial by judge or jury
Sentencing (if convicted)

Following conviction, the court imposes a sentence that may include:
- Incarceration in county jail or state prison
- Probation
- Community service
- Fines and court costs
- Restitution to victims
- Treatment programs
Post-Conviction Proceedings

After conviction, defendants may pursue:
- Direct appeal
- Post-conviction relief
- Sentence modification
- Expungement (after waiting period)

Throughout this process, defendants have constitutional rights protected under both federal law and Indiana Code § 35-33-7, including the right to counsel, the right to a speedy trial, and protection against self-incrimination.

How Long Are Arrest Records Kept in Bartholomew County?

Arrest records in Bartholomew County are maintained according to retention schedules established by Indiana law and administrative regulations. The Indiana Archives and Records Administration oversees record retention policies for all government agencies in the state, including law enforcement entities in Bartholomew County.

Under Indiana Code § 5-15-5.1-12, which governs public records retention, arrest records are subject to the following retention periods:

Law Enforcement Agencies

The Bartholomew County Sheriff's Office and Columbus Police Department maintain arrest records according to the following schedule:
- Arrest reports: Permanent retention
- Booking information: 10 years after date of arrest
- Fingerprint cards: 75 years after collection
- Photographs/mugshots: 75 years after collection
- Incident reports related to arrests: 10 years after case closure
County Clerk's Office

Court records related to arrests are maintained by the Bartholomew County Clerk according to these timeframes:
- Misdemeanor case files: 10 years after case disposition
- Level 6/Class D felony case files: 20 years after case disposition
- Higher-level felony case files: 55 years after case disposition
- Case indexes: Permanent retention
Indiana State Police

The Indiana State Police maintains criminal history information, including Bartholomew County arrests, according to these guidelines:
- Criminal history records: 75 years after date of last arrest
- Sex and violent offender registry information: Lifetime of the offender plus 10 years
Department of Correction

For arrests resulting in incarceration, the Indiana Department of Correction maintains records according to this schedule:
- Offender case files: 10 years after final discharge
- Offender medical records: 10 years after final discharge
- Offender identification information: 75 years after final discharge

Different agencies maintain different retention requirements based on their specific functions and legal obligations. These retention periods serve several important purposes:

Preservation of evidence for potential future legal proceedings
Documentation of law enforcement activities for accountability
Statistical analysis and crime pattern recognition
Historical documentation of criminal justice operations

Records may be maintained in physical form, electronic databases, or both, depending on the agency and the age of the records. The transition to electronic record-keeping has extended the practical retention period for many records that previously might have been destroyed due to storage limitations.

How to Find Mugshots in Bartholomew County

Mugshots, also known as booking photographs, are images taken during the arrest booking process that document the appearance of arrested individuals. In Bartholomew County, these photographs are maintained as part of official arrest records.

What Mugshots Are

Mugshots typically consist of front-facing and profile (side) photographs of arrested individuals. These images serve several law enforcement purposes:

Documentation of the arrestee's appearance at the time of booking
Identification of the individual throughout the criminal justice process
Evidence preservation for potential court proceedings
Reference for law enforcement investigations

Where Mugshots Are Maintained

In Bartholomew County, booking photographs are primarily maintained by:

Bartholomew County Sheriff's Office
543 Second Street
Columbus, IN 47201
(812) 565-5940
Bartholomew County Sheriff's Office

Columbus Police Department
123 Washington Street
Columbus, IN 47201
(812) 376-2600
Columbus Police Department

Finding Mugshots

Members of the public seeking access to mugshots in Bartholomew County may utilize several methods:

Submit a public records request to the arresting agency, specifying the individual's name, date of birth, and approximate date of arrest. Requests may be submitted in person, by mail, or in some cases, by email.
Visit the law enforcement agency in person during business hours to request mugshot records. Valid identification is typically required, and fees may apply for copies.
Check the Bartholomew County Jail inmate roster, which sometimes includes booking photographs of currently incarcerated individuals.

Can They Be Found Online

Unlike some jurisdictions, Bartholomew County law enforcement agencies do not maintain a public-facing online database of all booking photographs. However, limited mugshot information may be available through:

The Indiana Jail Management System, which provides basic information about current inmates but may not include photographs in all cases.
Third-party websites that aggregate mugshot information. These sites are not officially affiliated with Bartholomew County law enforcement and may contain outdated or inaccurate information.

Obtaining Mugshots Officially

To officially obtain mugshots, individuals should:

Complete a public records request form specifying the mugshot being requested
Provide identification and any required information about the subject
Pay applicable fees for record reproduction
Allow processing time as required by law (typically up to 7 business days)

Restrictions on Mugshot Access

Access to mugshots in Bartholomew County is subject to certain limitations under Indiana law:

Juvenile mugshots (under age 18) are generally not public records
Expunged arrest records, including mugshots, are removed from public access
Investigative exceptions may apply if release would interfere with ongoing investigations
Privacy considerations may limit access in certain sensitive cases

These restrictions are established pursuant to Indiana Code § 5-14-3-4, which outlines exceptions to public records disclosure requirements.