logo
New Hampshire PublicOffices.org
Search Public Records

New Hampshire Arrest Records

New Hampshire Public Records /New Hampshire Arrest Records

Are Arrest Records Public in New Hampshire?

Yes, arrest records in New Hampshire are generally public, but with important limitations under the New Hampshire Right-to-Know Law (RSA Chapter 91-A). The law gives the public the right to access many government records, including those maintained by law enforcement agencies. In practice, this means that basic arrest information—such as the individual’s name, date and place of arrest, charges filed, and the arresting agency—is typically available for public inspection. Local police departments and county sheriff’s offices often provide arrest logs, booking information, or inmate rosters to satisfy this requirement.

However, not all arrest-related information is open to the public. Certain records are exempt in order to protect privacy, due process, and public safety. For example, records relating to juveniles, sealed or annulled cases, medical information, and investigative files tied to ongoing prosecutions are not public. Additionally, while arrest logs are public, complete criminal history records are more restricted and maintained by the New Hampshire State Police Criminal Records Unit, which requires fingerprinting, fees, and compliance with state rules. This framework balances transparency with the protection of sensitive information.

What Law Governs Access to Arrest Records in New Hampshire?

Access to arrest records in New Hampshire is primarily governed by the New Hampshire Right-to-Know Law (RSA 91-A), which establishes the framework for public access to government records. This law embodies the principle that the public has the right to access information about governmental proceedings and records to ensure transparency.

Additional laws that impact access to arrest records include:

The New Hampshire Department of Safety, Division of State Police, is responsible for maintaining the state's criminal history record repository and ensuring compliance with these laws when providing access to arrest records.

What Information Is Included in a New Hampshire Arrest Record?

A typical arrest record in New Hampshire contains comprehensive information about an individual's interaction 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
    • Statute numbers of alleged violations

  • Case processing information:

    • Booking details
    • Detention information
    • Court appearance dates
    • Case numbers
    • Disposition of charges (if available)

  • Additional information:

    • Bail or bond information
    • Warrant information (if applicable)
    • Incident reports related to the arrest

It's important to note that the completeness of information may vary depending on the stage of the criminal justice process and the specific agency providing the records.

How To Obtain Arrest Records in New Hampshire in 2025

To obtain arrest records in New Hampshire, individuals can follow several established procedures depending on their needs and the specific records they seek:

  1. In-person requests can be made at the New Hampshire Department of Safety, Division of State Police, Criminal Records Unit:

New Hampshire Department of Safety, Division of State Police
33 Hazen Drive
Concord, NH 03305
(603) 223-3867
NH Department of Safety

Public counter hours: Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:15 PM (excluding holidays)

  1. Mail requests can be submitted by sending a completed Criminal Record Release Authorization Form to the above address. Forms can be downloaded from the NH Department of Safety website.

  2. Local police departments maintain records of arrests made within their jurisdiction. Contact the specific department where the arrest occurred.

  3. County Sheriff's Offices may provide access to arrest records for their jurisdictions.

  4. Court records related to arrests can be obtained through the New Hampshire Judicial Branch.

When requesting records, you must provide:

  • The full name of the person whose record you're seeking
  • Date of birth
  • Proper identification
  • Payment of applicable fees
  • Completed authorization forms
  • Notarization (for certain requests)

Processing times typically range from 7-10 business days for standard requests, though expedited services may be available for additional fees.

How to Find Arrest Records Online in New Hampshire

New Hampshire offers several online resources for accessing arrest records digitally:

  1. New Hampshire Department of Safety Online Portal - The Criminal Records Unit provides an online system for requesting criminal history information, including arrest records. Registered users can submit requests and receive results electronically.

  2. New Hampshire Judicial Branch Public Access Portal - The Court Case Access Portal allows searches of court records, which often include information about arrests and subsequent court proceedings.

  3. County Sheriff's Office Websites - Many county sheriff's offices maintain online inmate lookup tools that provide information about recent arrests:

  4. Municipal Police Department Websites - Larger police departments often maintain online arrest logs or booking reports:

  5. VINELink - The Victim Information and Notification Everyday system provides custody status information for offenders in New Hampshire.

When using online systems, users should be aware that:

  • Registration may be required for certain portals
  • Fees typically apply for official record requests
  • Not all records may be available online
  • Information may be limited compared to official record requests

Who Can Access Arrest Records in New Hampshire?

Under New Hampshire law, different individuals and entities have varying levels of access to arrest records:

  1. General Public - Any member of the public can request non-confidential arrest records under the Right-to-Know Law, though certain information may be redacted.

  2. The Individual of Record - Persons can always request their own criminal history information with proper identification.

  3. Criminal Justice Agencies - Law enforcement, courts, corrections, and other criminal justice agencies have broader access for official purposes.

  4. Licensed Professionals - Certain licensed professionals such as attorneys representing clients may have enhanced access.

  5. Employers - With proper authorization from the subject, employers can access records for employment screening purposes.

  6. Government Agencies - Various government agencies may access records for licensing, certification, or regulatory purposes.

  7. Researchers - Academic researchers may access anonymized data with appropriate approvals.

  8. Media Organizations - News media can access arrest records as part of public information, though they must follow the same procedures as other requesters.

Access levels may vary based on:

  • The purpose of the request
  • The relationship to the subject
  • Whether the subject has provided consent
  • The sensitivity of the information
  • The status of the case (pending vs. closed)
  • Whether records have been sealed or annulled

Are There Fees for Obtaining Arrest Records in New Hampshire?

Yes, New Hampshire charges fees for accessing arrest records and criminal history information. These fees help cover the administrative costs of processing requests and maintaining records systems.

Current fee structure (as of 2025):

Criminal History Record Check (In-state) - $25.00 Criminal History Record Check (FBI) - $47.00 Certified Copy - Additional $10.00 Expedited Service - Additional $25.00 Notary Fee (if required) - Varies by provider

Payment methods accepted include:

  • Credit/debit cards (online requests)
  • Money orders
  • Certified checks
  • Agency checks
  • Cash (in-person only)

Fee waivers or reductions may be available for:

  • Indigent individuals
  • Certain non-profit organizations
  • Volunteer organizations working with vulnerable populations
  • Government agencies for official purposes

All fees should be made payable to "State of NH – Criminal Records" when submitting requests by mail.

How Long Are Arrest Records Kept in New Hampshire

New Hampshire maintains arrest records for extended periods, following specific retention schedules established by state law and administrative rules. The retention periods vary based on several factors:

  1. Arrest Records Without Charges - Generally retained for a minimum of 5 years.

  2. Misdemeanor Convictions - Typically maintained for at least 10 years after the completion of the sentence, unless annulled.

  3. Felony Convictions - Maintained indefinitely in most cases, unless specifically annulled by court order.

  4. Juvenile Records - Subject to different retention schedules and confidentiality provisions under RSA 169-B.

  5. Annulled Records - After annulment, records are sealed but not destroyed, and remain accessible to law enforcement and courts for specific purposes.

The New Hampshire Department of Safety and the Administrative Office of the Courts maintain detailed retention schedules that govern how long different types of records are kept in active databases versus archived storage.

Digital records have generally extended the practical retention period of arrest information, as electronic storage has made it feasible to maintain records for longer periods than was previously possible with paper records.

What Information Is Redacted or Restricted in New Hampshire Arrest Records?

When providing arrest records to the public, certain sensitive information is typically redacted or restricted in New Hampshire to protect privacy rights and maintain the integrity of the criminal justice system:

  1. Personal Identifying Information:

    • Social Security numbers
    • Driver's license numbers
    • Financial account information
    • Medical information
    • Dates of birth (may be partially redacted)
    • Home addresses of certain protected individuals

  2. Sensitive Case Information:

    • Information about confidential informants
    • Details that could compromise ongoing investigations
    • Grand jury proceedings
    • Juvenile records (with limited exceptions)
    • Sexual assault victim identities
    • Domestic violence victim information

  3. Law Enforcement Sensitive Information:

    • Undercover officer identities
    • Tactical information
    • Intelligence gathering methods
    • Information that could compromise officer safety

  4. Records Subject to Special Protections:

    • Mental health proceedings
    • Substance abuse treatment information
    • Records that have been annulled or sealed by court order
    • Information protected by federal laws such as HIPAA

The redaction process is governed by the New Hampshire Right-to-Know Law (RSA 91-A:5), which outlines specific exemptions from disclosure.

How To Seal or Destroy Arrest Records in New Hampshire

New Hampshire law provides mechanisms for eligible individuals to petition for the sealing or annulment of arrest records under certain circumstances:

  1. Annulment Process - The primary method for sealing arrest records is through the annulment process outlined in RSA 651:5. Eligibility criteria include:

    • Completion of all terms of the sentence
    • Payment of all fines and restitution
    • Completion of required waiting periods (varies by offense)
    • No subsequent arrests or convictions during the waiting period

  2. Filing Procedure:

    • Submit a Petition for Annulment form to the court where the case was heard
    • Pay the required filing fee (currently $125 per petition)
    • Provide all required documentation
    • Attend any scheduled hearings

  3. Special Circumstances:

    • Records of arrests that did not result in conviction may be eligible for immediate annulment
    • Juvenile records have separate sealing provisions under RSA 169-B:35
    • Victims of human trafficking may have special provisions for record clearing

  4. Effect of Annulment:

    • Records are sealed from public view but not physically destroyed
    • The person may legally state they have not been arrested or convicted of the annulled offense
    • Law enforcement and courts retain access for specific purposes

For assistance with the annulment process, individuals can contact:

New Hampshire Judicial Branch Information Center
1 Granite Place, Suite N400
Concord, NH 03301
1-855-212-1234
NH Judicial Branch

What Are the Limitations on the Use of Arrest Records in New Hampshire?

New Hampshire law imposes several important limitations on how arrest records can be used, particularly in employment, housing, and other contexts:

  1. Employment Restrictions:

    • Employers cannot ask about annulled records
    • Under RSA 651:5(X), an annulment restores the person "to the status he occupied before the arrest or conviction"
    • Certain licensed professions and positions working with vulnerable populations have broader access to criminal history

  2. Housing Limitations:

    • Landlords must follow fair housing laws when using criminal history information
    • Blanket policies against all applicants with criminal records may violate federal fair housing guidelines

  3. Privacy Protections:

    • The Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) governs how consumer reporting agencies can report criminal history information
    • Records older than seven years generally cannot be included in consumer reports for positions with salaries under $75,000

  4. Prohibited Discrimination:

    • Using arrest records as a pretext for discrimination based on protected characteristics is prohibited
    • Arrests without convictions should not be used as evidence of wrongdoing

  5. Commercial Use Restrictions:

    • Commercial compilation and sale of arrest data may be subject to additional regulations
    • Data brokers must ensure accuracy and comply with applicable privacy laws

  6. Expunged/Annulled Records:

    • It is unlawful to discriminate against individuals based on annulled records
    • Entities that maintain databases must update records to reflect annulments

Violations of these limitations may result in civil liability, administrative penalties, or in some cases, criminal charges for misuse of criminal history information.

Lookup Arrest Records in New Hampshire

State Repository for Criminal History Records
New Hampshire Department of Safety, Division of State Police
33 Hazen Drive
Concord, NH 03305
(603) 223-3867
NH Criminal Records Unit

New Hampshire Department of Safety
33 Hazen Drive
Concord, NH 03305
(603) 223-3800
NH Department of Safety

New Hampshire State Police
33 Hazen Drive
Concord, NH 03305
(603) 223-3858
NH State Police

New Hampshire Department of Justice
33 Capitol Street
Concord, NH 03301
(603) 271-3658
NH Department of Justice

New Hampshire Department of Corrections
105 Pleasant Street
Concord, NH 03301
(603) 271-5600
NH Department of Corrections

New Hampshire Judicial Branch
Administrative Office of the Courts
1 Granite Place, Suite N400
Concord, NH 03301
1-855-212-1234
NH Judicial Branch

New Hampshire Supreme Court
1 Charles Doe Drive
Concord, NH 03301
(603) 271-2646
NH Supreme Court

County Sheriff's Offices:

  1. Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office
    329 Mast Road, Suite 109
    Goffstown, NH 03045
    (603) 627-5610
    Hillsborough County Sheriff

  2. Rockingham County Sheriff's Office
    99 North Road
    Brentwood, NH 03833
    (603) 679-2225
    Rockingham County Sheriff

  3. Merrimack County Sheriff's Office
    333 Daniel Webster Highway
    Boscawen, NH 03303
    (603) 796-6600
    Merrimack County Sheriff

  4. Strafford County Sheriff's Office
    259 County Farm Road
    Dover, NH 03820
    (603) 742-4960
    Strafford County Sheriff

  5. Grafton County Sheriff's Office
    3785 Dartmouth College Highway
    North Haverhill, NH 03774
    (603) 787-2111
    Grafton County Sheriff

  6. Cheshire County Sheriff's Office
    12 Court Street
    Keene, NH 03431
    (603) 352-4238
    Cheshire County Sheriff

  7. Belknap County Sheriff's Office
    34 County Drive
    Laconia, NH 03246
    (603) 527-5454
    Belknap County Sheriff

  8. Carroll County Sheriff's Office
    95 Water Village Road
    Ossipee, NH 03864
    (603) 539-2284
    Carroll County Sheriff

  9. Sullivan County Sheriff's Office
    14 Main Street
    Newport, NH 03773
    (603) 863-4200
    Sullivan County Sheriff

  10. Coos County Sheriff's Office
    55 School Street
    Lancaster, NH 03584
    (603) 788-5598
    Coos County Sheriff

Municipal Police Departments:

  1. Manchester Police Department
    405 Valley Street
    Manchester, NH 03103
    (603) 668-8711
    Manchester Police Department

  2. Nashua Police Department
    0 Panther Drive
    Nashua, NH 03060
    (603) 594-3500
    Nashua Police Department

  3. Concord Police Department
    35 Green Street
    Concord, NH 03301
    (603) 225-8600
    Concord Police Department

  4. Dover Police Department
    46 Chestnut Street
    Dover, NH 03820
    (603) 742-4646
    Dover Police Department

  5. Rochester Police Department
    23 Wakefield Street
    Rochester, NH 03867
    (603) 330-7127
    Rochester Police Department

Federal Agencies Operating in New Hampshire:

Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) - Boston Division
(Covers New Hampshire)
201 Maple Street
Chelsea, MA 02150
(857) 386-2000
FBI Boston Division

U.S. Marshals Service - District of New Hampshire
55 Pleasant Street, Room 352
Concord, NH 03301
(603) 225-1632
U.S. Marshals Service

U.S. Courts – District of New Hampshire
Warren B. Rudman U.S. Courthouse
55 Pleasant Street
Concord, NH 03301
(603) 225-1423
U.S. District Court - NH

Counties in New Hampshire
Belknap Coos
Other Public Records Categories in New Hampshire
Birth Records Court Records Criminal Records Death Records Divorce Records Driving Records Inmate Records Land Records Marriage Records Police Records Property Records Sex Offender Records Tax Records Vital Records Warrant Records