Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common questions about MugshotSearch.net and our mugshot search database.
What is MugshotSearch.net?
MugshotSearch.net is a free online database that provides access to publicly available arrest records and booking photos (mugshots) from law enforcement agencies across the United States. Our service aggregates this information to make it easily searchable by name and location.
We collect data from various public sources including county jails, police departments, and other law enforcement agencies that make arrest records publicly available.
How do I search for someone?
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.
Is this service free?
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.
How current is your data?
Arre.st regularly updates 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.
Can I remove my information?
No, MugshotSearch.net is a live search of the arre.st database, which does not offer a removal service.
Are these records accurate?
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.
What states do you cover?
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.
Why do I need to complete a reCAPTCHA?
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.
Can I use this information for employment screening?
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.
How can I contact you?
You can reach us via our Contact page.