Sheridan County Arrest Records
How To Look Up Arrest Records in Sheridan County in 2026
SheridanRecords.us provides access to publicly available information related to arrest records in Sheridan County, Wyoming. Members of the public may find booking records, detention logs, court case information, and related criminal justice data through this resource. Available record categories may include arrest logs, booking photographs, charge information, bond status, and court case numbers. The completeness and currency of records may vary depending on the originating agency and the nature of the case.
Records may be searched through official government resources, clerk offices, public access terminals, and online tools maintained by county and state agencies. The following resources are available to members of the public seeking arrest record information.
Online Methods:
1. County Sheriff's Office Arrest Records
The Sheridan County Sheriff's Office publishes daily incident reports and arrest and detention records through its official website. Members of the public may access the Sheriff's Office Daily Incident Reports and Arrests and Detentions documents directly online. These records include the arrestee's name, charges, booking date, and custody status. The Sheriff's Office updates these documents on a regular basis, with incident reports and arrest logs typically reflecting activity from the prior day.
2. Local Police Departments
The City of Sheridan Police Department maintains a Records Division that processes public records requests for police reports and arrest-related documents. Members of the public may submit requests through the Sheridan Police Department Records page. The Records Division handles special requests, public records requests forwarded from City Hall, and requests for police reports. Press releases containing arrest information are periodically published through the department's official communications channels.
3. County Clerk of Court Case Search
Arrest records are frequently linked to court case filings. Members of the public may search for associated criminal cases through the District Court, 4th Judicial District, Sheridan County, which maintains jurisdiction over felony and serious misdemeanor matters arising in Sheridan County. Searching by an arrestee's name through the court's case management system may reveal associated criminal case numbers, charge information, hearing dates, and case dispositions.
4. State Law Enforcement Database
The Wyoming Department of Corrections operates the Wyoming Offender Locator, a statewide database that allows members of the public to search for individuals currently under the supervision of the Wyoming Department of Corrections. The minimum search criteria required for access is either a WDOC inmate number or the first two letters of the offender's last name. This tool is particularly useful for locating individuals who have been sentenced to state custody following conviction.
In-Person Access:
Sheriff's Office:
Sheridan County Sheriff's Office
1 S. Brooks Street
Sheridan, WY 82801
Phone: (307) 674-6792
Sheridan County Sheriff's Office
Members of the public visiting in person should bring a valid government-issued photo identification and, where possible, specific information about the arrest, including the arrestee's full name, date of birth, and approximate date of arrest. Copy fees apply to printed records.
Police Departments:
Sheridan Police Department – Records Division
217 S. Brooks Street
Sheridan, WY 82801
Phone: (307) 672-2488
Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Sheridan Police Department
Clerk of Court:
Sheridan County Clerk of District Court
224 S. Main Street, Suite B4
Sheridan, WY 82801
Phone: (307) 674-2920
Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
District Court, 4th Judicial District
Members of the public may inspect criminal case files at the Clerk of Court's office. Copy fees are assessed per page for printed documents.
By Mail:
Written requests for arrest records may be submitted to the Sheridan County Sheriff's Office at 1 S. Brooks Street, Sheridan, WY 82801. A written request should include the arrestee's full legal name, date of arrest if known, booking number if known, and the requestor's full contact information. Payment for applicable copy fees should accompany the request. Processing time varies depending on the volume of requests received and the age of the records sought.
By Phone:
The Sheridan County Sheriff's Office may be reached at (307) 674-6792. Callers should have the subject's full name, date of birth, and approximate arrest date available. The information available by phone is limited, and callers may be directed to submit a written request or visit in person for detailed records.
Through Legal Channels:
Attorneys may submit formal records requests on behalf of clients. Subpoenas may be issued for detailed records in the context of civil or criminal litigation. Discovery procedures in criminal proceedings provide defendants and their counsel with access to arrest-related documentation held by the prosecution.
Information Needed for Search:
- Full legal name (first and last name at minimum)
- Date of birth or approximate age
- Approximate date of arrest
- Booking number, if known
- Jurisdiction of arrest (Sheriff's Office, Sheridan Police Department, or other agency)
Are Arrest Records Public in Sheridan County
Arrest records in Sheridan County are public records under Wyoming law. Pursuant to § 16-4-201 et seq. of the Wyoming Public Records Act, all public records are open for inspection by any person unless a specific statutory exemption applies. Arrest records serve the purposes of government transparency, public safety awareness, community notification, journalistic inquiry, background screening, and legal proceedings.
What Arrest Information Is Public:
- Arrestee name and known aliases
- Date and time of arrest
- Location of arrest
- Arresting agency
- Charges filed at the time of arrest
- Booking number
- Booking photograph (mugshot)
- Bond and bail information
- Current custody status
- Basic demographic information, including age and physical description
Limitations on Public Access:
- Juvenile arrest records are restricted or sealed under Wyoming law
- Expunged arrest records are removed from public access following a court order
- Sealed records are subject to court-ordered confidentiality
- Information related to active investigations may be withheld
- Undercover officer identities are protected
- Confidential informant information is not disclosed
- Victim identifying information may be withheld in certain cases
- Witness protection participants are excluded from public disclosure
Constitutional and Legal Basis:
The Wyoming Constitution and the Wyoming Public Records Act establish the framework for public access to government records, including arrest records. Courts have recognized the First Amendment interest of the press and public in accessing arrest information. At the same time, due process considerations and statutory exemptions protect individuals from unwarranted invasions of privacy, particularly where charges were not filed or were subsequently dismissed.
Who Can Access Arrest Records:
- Members of the general public
- Media organizations
- Employers, subject to restrictions under the federal Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA)
- Landlords, subject to applicable restrictions
- Licensing agencies
- Background check companies
- Attorneys and legal professionals
- Academic researchers
Restrictions on Use:
The federal Fair Credit Reporting Act governs the use of arrest records in employment and housing decisions. Employers and landlords who use consumer reporting agencies to obtain background check information must comply with FCRA requirements, including adverse action procedures. An arrest that did not result in conviction carries a different legal weight than a conviction, and members of the public are cautioned to observe this distinction when evaluating arrest record information.
What's in Sheridan County Arrest Records
Personal Identification Information:
Arrest records maintained by the Sheridan County Sheriff's Office and the Sheridan Police Department include the subject's full legal name, any aliases or "also known as" names, date of birth, age at the time of arrest, sex, race or ethnicity, height, weight, eye color, hair color, and identifying marks such as scars or tattoos. The subject's address at the time of arrest may be included in limited form.
Arrest Details:
Each arrest record documents the date and time of arrest, the location of the arrest, the arresting agency, and in some cases the name and badge number of the arresting officer. The booking date and time, booking number, and any warrant information associated with the arrest are also recorded.
Charges Information:
Arrest records specify the criminal charges filed at the time of booking, including the statute numbers alleged to have been violated, charge descriptions, classification by felony degree or misdemeanor class, and the number of counts for each charge. Domestic violence designations and gang-related designations are noted where applicable.
Booking Information:
The Sheridan County Detention Center processes all individuals arrested within the county. Booking records include the facility name, intake timestamp, booking photograph, and fingerprint collection notation. Personal property is inventoried and stored during detention.
Custody and Bond Information:
Arrest records reflect the subject's current custody status, including whether the individual remains in custody, has been released on bond, or has been released on personal recognizance. Bond amounts, bond types, and release dates are documented where applicable. Release conditions that are part of the public record are also included.
Court Information:
Following arrest, a court case number is assigned and the matter is referred to the appropriate court. The District Court, 4th Judicial District, Sheridan County handles felony matters, while the Sheridan County Circuit Court handles misdemeanor cases. Scheduled arraignment dates and judge assignments may appear in publicly accessible court records.
What's Typically NOT in Public Arrest Records:
- Detailed narrative of the arrest from the police report
- Witness statements
- Victim identifying information
- Evidence collected during the investigation
- Investigative techniques employed
- Medical or mental health information
- Social Security numbers (redacted)
- Bank account or financial information
Difference Between Arrest Records and Related Documents:
- Police reports contain more detailed incident narratives and investigative information
- Court records document legal proceedings that occur after the arrest
- Criminal records reflect convictions and sentences imposed
- Background checks are comprehensive screenings drawing from multiple sources
How Much Does It Cost to Get Arrest Records in Sheridan County?
Members of the public may inspect arrest records at no charge during regular business hours at the relevant agency. Fees apply when copies are requested. Under the Wyoming Public Records Act, agencies are authorized to charge reasonable fees for the actual cost of copying records.
| Record Type | Inspection Fee | Copy Fee (Per Page) | Certification Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| Arrest/Booking Records | None | $0.10–$0.25 (standard) | Varies by office |
| Police Reports | None | $0.10–$0.25 (standard) | Varies by office |
| Court Case Records | None | $0.25 per page (typical) | $1.00–$5.00 |
| Electronic Copies | None | Varies | N/A |
Accepted payment methods at the Sheridan County Sheriff's Office and Clerk of Court include cash, check, and money order. Members of the public should confirm current fee schedules directly with the relevant office, as fees may be adjusted periodically. Fee waivers may be available for indigent requestors or in cases where disclosure is determined to be in the public interest, at the discretion of the custodial agency.
Booking photographs and daily arrest logs published online by the Sheridan County Sheriff's Office are available at no cost through the Incidents, Arrests and Detentions page.
How To Delete Arrest Records in Sheridan County
Wyoming law provides two primary mechanisms for limiting public access to arrest records: expungement, which results in the destruction or sealing of the record, and sealing, which restricts public access while preserving the record for law enforcement purposes. Under § 7-13-1401 et seq. of the Wyoming Statutes, eligible individuals may petition the court for expungement of arrest records where charges were not filed, were dismissed, or resulted in acquittal. Individuals convicted of certain low-level offenses may also be eligible for expungement after completing their sentence and satisfying a waiting period.
Eligibility for Expungement:
- Arrest with no charges filed
- Charges dismissed by the prosecutor or the court
- Acquittal at trial
- Conviction for certain misdemeanor offenses after completion of sentence and applicable waiting period
- Successful completion of a diversion program
Steps to Petition for Expungement:
- Obtain a copy of the arrest record and associated court case information from the Clerk of District Court.
- Confirm eligibility under Wyoming § 7-13-1401.
- Prepare and file a Petition for Expungement in the District Court, 4th Judicial District, Sheridan County.
- Serve the petition on the prosecuting attorney's office and any other required parties.
- Attend the scheduled hearing, at which the court will determine whether expungement is warranted.
- If granted, the court issues an Order of Expungement directing all relevant agencies to seal or destroy the record.
Contact Information for Expungement Proceedings:
Sheridan County Clerk of District Court
224 S. Main Street, Suite B4
Sheridan, WY 82801
Phone: (307) 674-2920
District Court, 4th Judicial District, Sheridan County
Sheridan County Attorney's Office
224 S. Main Street, Suite B1
Sheridan, WY 82801
Phone: (307) 674-2920
Individuals seeking expungement are advised to consult with a licensed Wyoming attorney, as the procedural requirements and eligibility criteria are case-specific.
What Happens After Arrest in Sheridan County?
Immediate Post-Arrest Process:
1. Transport to Jail
Following an arrest, the individual is transported to the Sheridan County Detention Center, which serves as the county's primary booking and detention facility. The Sheridan County Sheriff's Office Detention Division, comprised of 20 Detention Deputies, is responsible for the intake and supervision of all individuals held in county custody.
Sheridan County Detention Center
1 S. Brooks Street
Sheridan, WY 82801
Phone: (307) 674-6792
Sheridan County Detention Center
2. Booking Process
Upon arrival at the Detention Center, the booking process is initiated. This process includes recording personal information, photographing the individual, collecting fingerprints, conducting a criminal history and outstanding warrants check, inventorying personal property, and completing medical and mental health screenings. The booking process typically takes one to four hours depending on facility volume.
3. First Appearance/Initial Hearing
Under Wyoming law, an arrested individual must be brought before a judicial officer without unnecessary delay, and in no event later than 72 hours following arrest. At the initial appearance, the court formally notifies the individual of the charges, determines bond or bail, advises the individual of their rights, and, where applicable, appoints a public defender for those who qualify based on financial need. Initial appearances may be conducted via video conference.
Bond/Bail Process:
Cash Bond: The full bond amount is paid in cash to the court or detention facility. The amount is refunded at the conclusion of the case, minus applicable fees.
Surety Bond: The individual engages a licensed bail bondsman, who posts the full bond amount in exchange for a non-refundable premium, which is set by Wyoming law.
Personal Recognizance (PR Bond): The individual is released on a written promise to appear at all future court dates. No monetary payment is required. Eligibility is based on community ties, employment status, criminal history, the nature of the charges, and assessed flight risk.
No Bond: In cases involving serious violent offenses, demonstrated flight risk, danger to the community, probation or parole violations, immigration holds, or out-of-state warrants, the court may order the individual held without bond.
4. Release or Continued Detention
If bond is posted, the individual is processed for release, which typically takes one to eight hours. The individual receives a court date and written conditions of release. Failure to appear at any scheduled court date results in bond forfeiture and the issuance of a bench warrant. Individuals who do not post bond remain in custody at the Sheridan County Detention Center pending resolution of their case.
Accessing Legal Representation:
Sheridan County Public Defender
224 S. Main Street
Sheridan, WY 82801
Phone: (307) 674-6421
Eligibility for public defender services is based on financial need. Individuals who do not qualify for a public defender may retain private counsel. Attorney visits at the Detention Center are conducted on a confidential basis.
Charging Decision:
The Sheridan County Attorney's Office reviews the arrest and determines whether to file formal charges, request additional investigation, decline prosecution, or file different charges. For felony matters, the prosecution may proceed by Information or, in certain cases, by Grand Jury Indictment. The charging decision is made within days to weeks of the arrest, depending on the complexity of the case.
Court Process Overview:
Following arraignment, the case proceeds through the pretrial phase, which includes discovery, pretrial motions, and pretrial conferences. The prosecution and defense may engage in plea negotiations at any stage. Cases may be resolved by dismissal, diversion program completion, plea agreement, or trial. If the defendant is convicted at trial or by plea, a sentencing hearing is scheduled before the assigned judge.
Timeline Overview:
- Arrest to first appearance: within 72 hours
- First appearance to arraignment: days to weeks
- Arraignment to trial or resolution: months, varying by case complexity
- Misdemeanor cases: resolved within weeks to several months
- Felony cases: resolved within several months to over one year
- Right to speedy trial: guaranteed under the Wyoming Constitution and applicable court rules
Important Contacts:
Sheridan County Sheriff's Office (Jail)
1 S. Brooks Street
Sheridan, WY 82801
Phone: (307) 674-6792
Sheridan County Sheriff's Office
Clerk of District Court
224 S. Main Street, Suite B4
Sheridan, WY 82801
Phone: (307) 674-2920
District Court, 4th Judicial District
Sheridan County Attorney's Office
224 S. Main Street, Suite B1
Sheridan, WY 82801
Phone: (307) 674-2920
What to Do If You're Arrested:
- Remain calm and cooperative with law enforcement officers.
- Do not physically resist arrest under any circumstances.
- Exercise the right to remain silent by politely declining to answer questions without an attorney present.
- Request an attorney immediately and do not waive this right.
- Do not discuss the case with anyone other than a licensed attorney.
- Contact family members or trusted individuals who may assist with bail.
- Attend all scheduled court dates without exception.
- Comply with all conditions of release if bond is granted.
How Long Are Arrest Records Kept in Sheridan County?
Records Retention Overview:
The retention of arrest records in Sheridan County is governed by Wyoming state law, the Wyoming State Records Committee's retention schedules, and the policies of individual law enforcement and court agencies. Under Wyoming's public records framework, agencies are required to maintain records in accordance with approved retention schedules and may not destroy records outside of those schedules without authorization.
Arrest Records Retention by Type:
Felony Convictions: Records associated with felony convictions are retained permanently by the Sheriff's Office, the Clerk of Court, the Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation, and the FBI's National Crime Information Center (NCIC). These records form part of the individual's permanent criminal history.
Misdemeanor Convictions: Records associated with misdemeanor convictions are retained permanently or for extended periods by local law enforcement and court agencies. The Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation maintains these records as part of the statewide criminal history repository.
Dismissed Charges: Arrest records associated with dismissed charges may remain in local law enforcement databases and court records unless the subject successfully petitions for expungement. These records may not appear on standard background checks but remain accessible to law enforcement.
Acquittals: Records of arrests resulting in acquittal at trial are retained by local agencies and the court. Court records of acquittals are maintained permanently in the electronic case management system. These records may be eligible for expungement under Wyoming law.
Charges Not Filed: Booking records for arrests where no charges were filed are subject to shorter retention periods and may be eligible for expungement. Individuals in this category may petition the court for immediate removal of the record from public access.
Retention by Agency:
Sheriff's Office: Booking records, arrest reports, and investigative files are retained in accordance with the Wyoming State Records Committee's approved schedule. Felony-related records are retained permanently; misdemeanor and non-conviction records are retained for periods specified in the applicable schedule.
Sheridan Police Department: Arrest records and incident reports are retained in accordance with state retention schedules. Retention periods may vary by record type and case disposition.
Clerk of Court: Felony case files are retained permanently in electronic form. Misdemeanor case files are retained for periods specified by the Wyoming Supreme Court's records retention policies. Electronic records are maintained indefinitely in the court's case management system.
Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation: The state criminal history repository maintains records of all arrests reported by Wyoming law enforcement agencies. Retention is governed by state policy and federal requirements applicable to participation in the NCIC and the Interstate Identification Index (III).
FBI Database: The NCIC and the Interstate Identification Index maintain federal records of arrests reported by participating agencies. Federal retention is permanent. These records are accessible to law enforcement agencies nationwide and are used in employment background checks for positions requiring federal clearance.
Effect of Disposition on Retention:
- Conviction: Permanent retention in all applicable databases; appears on background checks indefinitely.
- Dismissal: May remain in databases unless expunged; not reported on standard consumer background checks.
- Expungement: Local records are sealed or destroyed; the state repository updates its records; the FBI database may retain a notation of the expungement.
- No Charges Filed: Subject to the shortest retention periods; may be purged automatically after the applicable retention period or upon successful petition.
Impact on Background Checks:
Under the federal Fair Credit Reporting Act, consumer reporting agencies may report criminal convictions indefinitely. Non-conviction arrest records are subject to the seven-year reporting limitation applicable in many jurisdictions. Wyoming does not currently impose a separate state-law limitation on the reporting period for convictions. Arrests that did not result in conviction may not be reported by consumer reporting agencies after seven years from the date of the arrest.
Third-Party Databases:
Commercial background check companies and third-party websites may retain arrest record information independently of law enforcement agencies. These entities are not subject to the same update obligations as government agencies, and records that have been expunged or sealed may persist in commercial databases. The FCRA requires that consumer reporting agencies maintain reasonable procedures to ensure the accuracy of reported information.
How to Check Retention Status:
Members of the public seeking information about the retention status of a specific arrest record may contact the Sheridan County Sheriff's Office Records Division at (307) 674-6792 or submit a written public records request. Fees may apply for copies of records provided in response to such requests.