Wyoming Arrest Records

Wyoming Public Records /Wyoming Arrest Records

Are Arrest Records Public in Wyoming?

Yes, arrest records in Wyoming are generally considered public information under the Wyoming Public Records Act. This means that most arrest records maintained by law enforcement agencies, courts, and correctional facilities throughout the state are accessible to the public.

Wyoming follows the principle that government records should be open and transparent to promote accountability and public oversight. However, this right to access is not absolute. Certain arrest records may be restricted or redacted based on specific statutory exemptions, ongoing investigations, juvenile status, or court orders.

The Wyoming Public Records Act establishes that all public records shall be open for inspection by any person during normal business hours, provided that examination of the records does not interfere with the official duties of the custodian. This includes arrest records maintained by various law enforcement agencies across the state.

It's important to note that while arrest records are generally public, the level of detail and accessibility may vary depending on the agency maintaining the records, the status of the case, and whether any exemptions apply to the specific information contained within the records.

What Law Governs Access to Arrest Records in Wyoming?

Access to arrest records in Wyoming is primarily governed by the Wyoming Public Records Act, codified in Wyoming Statutes §16-4-201 through §16-4-205. This comprehensive legislation establishes the framework for public access to government records, including arrest records.

The Wyoming Public Records Act defines public records as "any information in a physical form created, accepted, or obtained by the state or any agency, institution or political subdivision of the state in furtherance of its official function and transaction of public business." This broad definition encompasses arrest records created and maintained by law enforcement agencies.

Additional laws that impact access to arrest records in Wyoming include:

Wyoming Criminal History Record Information Act (W.S. §7-19-101 through §7-19-109): Regulates the collection, maintenance, and dissemination of criminal history record information.
Wyoming Juvenile Justice Act (W.S. §14-6-201 through §14-6-252): Contains provisions regarding the confidentiality of juvenile records.
Wyoming Rules of Criminal Procedure: Establishes procedures related to criminal cases, including provisions about court records.
Wyoming Court Rules on Access to Court Records: Provides specific guidelines for accessing records maintained by the court system.

These laws collectively establish a presumption of openness while also recognizing the need to protect certain information from disclosure in specific circumstances.

What Information Is Included in a Wyoming Arrest Record?

A typical Wyoming arrest record contains comprehensive information about an individual's encounter with law enforcement. These records generally include:

Personal identifying information:
- Full legal name
- Date of birth
- Physical description (height, weight, eye color, hair color)
- Photograph (mugshot)
- Fingerprints
- Address at time of arrest
Arrest details:
- Date and time of arrest
- Location of arrest
- Arresting agency
- Name and badge number of arresting officer(s)
- Charges filed
- Statutory citations for alleged violations
- Booking information
Case processing information:
- Court case number
- Court appearance dates
- Bail or bond information
- Plea information
- Case disposition (if available)
- Sentencing information (if applicable)
Additional information:
- Property seized during arrest
- Vehicle information (if relevant)
- Witness information (may be redacted)
- Victim information (often redacted)
- Narrative description of the incident

The level of detail may vary depending on the agency maintaining the record and the stage of the criminal justice process. Records maintained by the Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation (DCI) typically contain the most comprehensive criminal history information, while local agencies may maintain more detailed information about specific arrests within their jurisdiction.

How To Obtain Arrest Records in Wyoming in 2025

Obtaining arrest records in Wyoming can be accomplished through several methods, depending on your specific needs and the type of information you're seeking. Here are the primary ways to access arrest records in Wyoming:

In-person requests: Visit the law enforcement agency that made the arrest or the court where the case was processed. Bring identification and be prepared to complete a request form.
Mail requests: Submit a written request to the appropriate agency, including your contact information, the subject's identifying information, and the specific records you're seeking.
Online access: Many Wyoming agencies now offer online portals for requesting and accessing arrest records.
Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation (DCI): For comprehensive criminal history information, contact the Wyoming DCI.

Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation
208 South College Drive
Cheyenne, WY 82002
(307) 777-7181
Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation

To obtain the most complete arrest records, you may need to contact multiple agencies, as information is often distributed across different systems. For example:

Local police departments or sheriff's offices maintain records of arrests they conduct
County courts maintain case records for prosecutions within their jurisdiction
The Wyoming Department of Corrections maintains records related to incarceration
The Wyoming Supreme Court maintains a centralized case management system for court records

When requesting records, be as specific as possible about the information you need. Include the full name of the subject, date of birth, approximate date of arrest, and any case numbers if available. This helps agencies locate the correct records efficiently.

How to Find Arrest Records Online in Wyoming

Wyoming offers several online resources for accessing arrest records digitally. These platforms vary in the scope of information they provide and their accessibility to the public. Here are the primary online resources for finding arrest records in Wyoming:

Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation - Criminal History Records The DCI provides an online system for requesting criminal history information, though complete records typically require fingerprint submission. Wyoming DCI Background Checks
County Sheriff's Office Websites Many Wyoming county sheriff's offices maintain online inmate rosters or recent arrest logs:
Wyoming Department of Corrections - Inmate Locator For individuals who have been sentenced to state prison, the WDOC maintains an online inmate search tool. Wyoming Department of Corrections Inmate Search
Third-Party Aggregators Several commercial websites compile public record information from multiple sources. While convenient, these sites may charge fees and the information may not always be current or complete.

When using online resources, be aware that:

Some systems may require registration or payment
Not all arrest records are available online
Recent arrests may not appear immediately in online systems
Some information may be redacted in online versions
The most comprehensive records typically require formal requests

For the most accurate and complete information, it's often best to contact the specific agency that made the arrest or the court that handled the case directly.

Who Can Access Arrest Records in Wyoming?

Under Wyoming law, arrest records are generally accessible to a wide range of individuals and organizations, though certain restrictions apply. Here's a breakdown of who can access arrest records in Wyoming:

General Public Access:

Any member of the public can request and obtain non-confidential arrest records
No need to demonstrate a specific purpose or relationship to the subject
Access may be limited to certain information based on privacy protections

Enhanced Access for Specific Entities:

Criminal justice agencies (law enforcement, courts, corrections)
Government agencies for employment screening
Licensing boards for professional licensing purposes
Authorized researchers (with appropriate protocols)
Attorneys representing clients in related matters

Subject Access:

Individuals have the right to access their own arrest records
May request complete records, including information that might be redacted for others
Can obtain records for review, correction of errors, or legal proceedings

Restricted Access:

Juvenile arrest records (generally confidential with exceptions)
Sealed or expunged records
Records related to ongoing investigations
Records ordered confidential by a court

Wyoming law balances the public's right to information with individual privacy concerns. While the presumption favors disclosure, certain sensitive information may be redacted or restricted, particularly when disclosure could compromise privacy, safety, or the integrity of the criminal justice process.

Are There Fees for Obtaining Arrest Records in Wyoming?

Yes, there are fees associated with obtaining arrest records in Wyoming. These fees vary depending on the agency providing the records, the type of record requested, and the method of access. Here's an overview of the fee structure for arrest records in Wyoming:

Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation (DCI) Fees:

Criminal History Record Check: $15 per name-based search
Fingerprint-based Criminal History Check: $39 ($15 state fee + $24 FBI fee)
Certified Records: Additional $5 per certification

County and Municipal Agency Fees:

Fees vary by jurisdiction but typically range from $5 to $25 per record
Some agencies charge per page (often $0.50 to $1.00 per page)
Certified copies may incur additional fees

Wyoming Court System Fees:

Court record searches: $5-$10 per name
Copies of court documents: $0.50-$1.00 per page
Certified court documents: Additional $2-$5 per document

Fee Waivers and Reductions:

Some agencies may reduce or waive fees for:
- Individuals accessing their own records
- Indigent requesters who demonstrate financial hardship
- Certain non-profit organizations for research purposes
- Government agencies for official purposes

Payment Methods:

Most agencies accept:
- Cash (in-person requests only)
- Personal checks
- Money orders
- Credit/debit cards (in-person and online)

It's advisable to contact the specific agency before requesting records to confirm current fees and acceptable payment methods. For online requests, payment is typically required at the time of submission through secure payment portals.

How Long Are Arrest Records Kept in Wyoming

Wyoming maintains arrest records for extended periods, with retention schedules varying based on the type of record, the severity of the offense, and the maintaining agency. Here's a comprehensive overview of record retention practices in Wyoming:

State-Level Record Retention:

The Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation maintains criminal history records indefinitely for most serious offenses
Fingerprint records and associated arrest data are permanently maintained in the state repository
Court records for felony cases are typically retained permanently

County and Local Agency Retention:

Sheriff's offices and police departments generally follow retention schedules of:
- Felony arrests: 25 years to permanent
- Misdemeanor arrests: 10-25 years
- Minor infractions: 5-10 years
- Arrests not resulting in charges: 2-5 years (may be eligible for earlier expungement)

Court Record Retention:

Wyoming courts maintain records according to the following general guidelines:
- Felony cases: Permanent retention
- Misdemeanor cases: 10-25 years after case closure
- Traffic and minor offenses: 5-10 years after case closure

Special Circumstances:

Juvenile records: Generally maintained until the subject reaches age 21, then sealed or destroyed (with exceptions for violent offenses)
Sex offenses: Records maintained permanently
Homicide cases: Records maintained permanently
Expunged or sealed records: Physically maintained but restricted from public access

It's important to note that even when physical records might be destroyed according to retention schedules, summary information may be maintained in databases indefinitely. Additionally, once records have been published or distributed (such as through media reports or third-party background check companies), those versions may persist regardless of official record retention policies.

What Information Is Redacted or Restricted in Wyoming Arrest Records?

When accessing arrest records in Wyoming, certain information is commonly redacted or restricted to protect privacy, safety, and the integrity of the criminal justice system. Here's what information is typically redacted or restricted in Wyoming arrest records:

Personal Identifying Information:

Social Security numbers
Driver's license numbers
Personal financial information
Medical and health information
Home addresses of victims and witnesses
Phone numbers and email addresses of private individuals

Sensitive Case Information:

Information about confidential informants
Details that could compromise ongoing investigations
Grand jury proceedings
Information sealed by court order
Details about undercover law enforcement operations
Juvenile offender information (with limited exceptions)

Victim Information:

Names and identifying details of victims of sexual offenses
Information about child victims
Victim impact statements (in some circumstances)
Photographs of victims
Medical details of victims

Witness Protection:

Information that could endanger witnesses
Witness statements prior to testimony
Witness protection program details

Legal Protections:

Information protected by attorney-client privilege
Information subject to other legal privileges
Mental health evaluations ordered by the court
Pre-sentence investigation reports

Additional Restricted Information:

Records that have been expunged or sealed
Information about cases dismissed without conviction
Deferred prosecution agreements still in progress
Information about pardoned offenses

The extent of redaction varies depending on who is requesting the records, the purpose of the request, and the specific circumstances of the case. Criminal justice agencies typically have access to complete, unredacted records, while public requesters receive versions with protected information removed or obscured.

How To Seal or Destroy Arrest Records in Wyoming

Wyoming law provides several mechanisms for sealing or expunging arrest records under specific circumstances. Here's a comprehensive guide to the process:

Eligibility for Expungement or Sealing:

Under Wyoming Statute §7-13-1401, individuals may petition for expungement if:

The arrest did not result in a conviction
The charges were dismissed
The individual was acquitted of all charges
The conviction was set aside or pardoned
For certain misdemeanor convictions after specified waiting periods
For certain felony convictions after longer waiting periods (limited circumstances)

Petition Process:

Prepare the petition: Complete the petition for expungement form, which must include:
- Full name and aliases
- Date of birth
- Criminal history information
- Case numbers and dates
- Statutory grounds for expungement
- Current contact information
File with the appropriate court:
- For municipal violations: File with the municipal court
- For circuit court cases: File with the circuit court
- For district court cases: File with the district court
Serve notice:
- Provide copies to the prosecuting attorney
- Serve the Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation
- Notify the law enforcement agency that made the arrest
Attend the hearing:
- The court will schedule a hearing on the petition
- Present evidence supporting the petition
- Address any objections from prosecutors
Court order:
- If granted, the court issues an order for expungement
- The order directs all agencies to seal or destroy records

Juvenile Record Sealing:

Juvenile records follow a different process under Wyoming Statute §14-6-241:

Records may be sealed when the subject reaches age 18
The court may order sealing earlier in some circumstances
Some serious offenses may not be eligible for sealing

First Offender Treatment:

For first-time drug offenders, Wyoming Statute §7-13-301 provides a deferred prosecution option that can lead to dismissal and eligibility for expungement upon successful completion.

Legal Assistance:

Due to the complexity of the expungement process, many individuals seek legal assistance from:

Private attorneys
Legal aid organizations
Wyoming State Bar referral services

After expungement, the individual may legally deny the existence of the expunged arrest or conviction in most circumstances, with certain exceptions for law enforcement and some licensing agencies.

What Are the Limitations on the Use of Arrest Records in Wyoming?

Wyoming law imposes several important limitations on how arrest records can be used, particularly in employment, housing, and other contexts. Understanding these restrictions is crucial for both record subjects and those accessing the information:

Employment Limitations:

Under the Wyoming Fair Employment Practices Act, employers have restrictions on how they can use arrest records:
- Employers generally cannot consider arrests that did not lead to conviction
- Must consider the nature of the offense in relation to the job
- Must consider the time elapsed since the offense
- Must provide opportunity to explain circumstances
Public employers are subject to additional restrictions:
- Must demonstrate job-relatedness for any criminal history exclusions
- Cannot implement blanket bans on hiring individuals with records

Housing Limitations:

Landlords and housing providers must:
- Consider arrests and convictions on a case-by-case basis
- Avoid blanket policies that exclude all applicants with records
- Provide notice when denying housing based on criminal history

Licensing Limitations:

Professional licensing boards must:
- Have clear standards for considering criminal history
- Consider rehabilitation evidence
- Provide opportunity for explanation
- Only consider convictions directly related to the occupation

Commercial Use Restrictions:

Companies that compile and sell criminal history information must:
- Comply with the federal Fair Credit Reporting Act
- Ensure accuracy of information
- Update records to reflect expungements or corrections
- Obtain certification from users about permissible purposes

Prohibited Uses:

Wyoming law prohibits using arrest records for:

Intimidation or harassment
Discriminatory purposes
Unauthorized commercial solicitation
Identity theft or fraud

Penalties for Misuse:

Misuse of criminal history information can result in:

Civil liability
Administrative penalties
Criminal charges in severe cases
Professional discipline

It's important to note that these limitations apply differently depending on whether the information was obtained through official channels or through public sources like news reports. Information legally obtained from public sources generally has fewer usage restrictions than information obtained directly from government agencies.

Lookup Arrest Records in Wyoming

Wyoming offers multiple resources for accessing arrest records through various agencies at the state, county, and municipal levels. Below is a comprehensive directory of the primary agencies that maintain and provide access to arrest records in Wyoming:

State Repository for Criminal History Records

Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation
208 South College Drive
Cheyenne, WY 82002
(307) 777-7181
Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation

State Department of Corrections

Wyoming Department of Corrections
1934 Wyott Drive, Suite 100
Cheyenne, WY 82002
(307) 777-7208
Wyoming Department of Corrections

State Court System

Wyoming Supreme Court
2301 Capitol Avenue
Cheyenne, WY 82002
(307) 777-7316
Wyoming Judicial Branch

Attorney General's Office

Wyoming Attorney General's Office
Kendrick Building
2320 Capitol Avenue
Cheyenne, WY 82002
(307) 777-7841
Wyoming Attorney General's Office

County Sheriff's Offices

Laramie County Sheriff's Office
1910 Pioneer Avenue
Cheyenne, WY 82001
(307) 633-4700
Laramie County Sheriff's Office
Natrona County Sheriff's Office
201 North David Street
Casper, WY 82601
(307) 235-9282
Natrona County Sheriff's Office
Campbell County Sheriff's Office
600 West Boxelder Road
Gillette, WY 82718
(307) 682-7271
Campbell County Sheriff's Office
Sweetwater County Sheriff's Office
50140 US Highway 191
Rock Springs, WY 82901
(307) 922-5300
Sweetwater County Sheriff's Office
Albany County Sheriff's Office
525 Grand Avenue
Laramie, WY 82070
(307) 755-3520
Albany County Sheriff's Office
Fremont County Sheriff's Office
450 North 2nd Street
Lander, WY 82520
(307) 332-5611
Fremont County Sheriff's Office
Sheridan County Sheriff's Office
54 West 13th Street
Sheridan, WY 82801
(307) 672-3455
Sheridan County Sheriff's Office
Park County Sheriff's Office
1402 River View Drive
Cody, WY 82414
(307) 527-8700
Park County Sheriff's Office
Lincoln County Sheriff's Office
421 Jefferson Avenue
Kemmerer, WY 83101
(307) 877-3971
Lincoln County Sheriff's Office
Teton County Sheriff's Office
180 South King Street
Jackson, WY 83001
(307) 733-4052
Teton County Sheriff's Office

Municipal Police Departments

Cheyenne Police Department
2060 Capitol Avenue
Cheyenne, WY 82001
(307) 637-6500
Cheyenne Police Department
Casper Police Department
201 North David Street
Casper, WY 82601
(307) 235-8278
Casper Police Department
Laramie Police Department
420 East Ivinson Avenue
Laramie, WY 82070
(307) 721-2526
Laramie Police Department
Gillette Police Department
201 East 5th Street
Gillette, WY 82716
(307) 682-5155
Gillette Police Department
Rock Springs Police Department
221 C Street
Rock Springs, WY 82901
(307) 352-1575
Rock Springs Police Department

Federal Agencies Operating in Wyoming

Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) - Cheyenne Office
1230 East Collins Drive
Casper, WY 82601
(307) 632-6224
FBI Denver Division

U.S. Marshals Service - District of Wyoming
2120 Capitol Avenue, Room 2131
Cheyenne, WY 82001
(307) 772-2196
U.S. Marshals Service - District of Wyoming

U.S. District Court for the District of Wyoming
2120 Capitol Avenue, Room 2131
Cheyenne, WY 82001
(307) 433-2120
U.S. District Court - District of Wyoming