Frequently Asked Questions

MugshotSearch.net is a free online mugshot search that provides access to publicly available arrest records and booking photos (mugshots) from law enforcement agencies across the United States. MugshotSearch.net is a free service that is a front-end search for the Arre.st database.

Searching is simple and free:

• Enter the person's first and last name in the search form
• Complete the reCAPTCHA verification
• Click "Search" to view results
• For more targeted results, use our state-specific search pages

Note: You must enter at least the first name and last name. The last name must be at least 2 characters long for the search to work.

Yes, MugshotSearch.net is completely free to use. We do not charge any fees for searching our database or viewing search results.

You can perform unlimited searches without creating an account or providing payment information.

Arre.st regularly update their database with new arrest records from participating law enforcement agencies. The frequency of updates varies by location:

• Major metropolitan areas: Updated daily
• Smaller jurisdictions: Updated daily
• Rural areas: Updated daily

Some records may appear within hours of an arrest, while others may take several days to appear.

No, MugshotSearch.net is a live search of the arre.st database, which does not offer a removal service.

We strive for accuracy, but arrest records do not indicate guilt or conviction. Important points to remember:

• An arrest does not mean the person was convicted of a crime
• Charges may have been dropped, reduced, or dismissed
• Some records may contain errors from the original source
• Information should be verified through official channels

Always remember: In the United States, individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

Arre.st contains data from law enforcement agencies across the majority of the 50 US states. Coverage varies by state and jurisdiction based on:

• Local laws regarding public records
• Agency participation and data sharing policies
• Technical capabilities of local systems

You can search by specific state using our state-specific search pages for more targeted results.

The reCAPTCHA verification helps us:

• Prevent automated abuse of our search system
• Ensure searches are performed by real people
• Maintain system performance for all users
• Comply with responsible data access practices

This security measure helps protect both our service and the privacy of individuals in our database.

No, our service should not be used for employment screening, tenant screening, or other official background checks.

For official background checks, you must use services that comply with the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) and other applicable laws. Our database is intended for:

• General public information research
• Personal safety and awareness
• Journalistic research
• Academic research

Always consult with legal professionals for guidance on proper background screening procedures.

• Contact page: Visit our Contact page