Arrest records are public documents in Dahlonega, Georgia, pursuant to the Georgia Open Records Act (O.C.G.A. § 50-18-70 et seq.). This legislation establishes that government records, including those pertaining to arrests, are accessible to the public unless specifically exempted by statute. The public nature of these records serves to maintain transparency in law enforcement operations and ensures accountability within the criminal justice system.
Members of the public should be aware that while arrest records are generally available, certain information may be redacted to protect ongoing investigations or personal privacy in accordance with O.C.G.A. § 50-18-72. Juvenile records typically have additional protections under Georgia law and may not be as readily accessible as adult records.
The retrieval of arrest records in Dahlonega has been streamlined through various channels to accommodate public access needs. Individuals seeking arrest information may utilize the following official methods:
Online Databases: The Lumpkin County Sheriff's Office maintains digital records that can be searched using the arrestee's name, date of arrest, or case number. The Georgia Crime Information Center (GCIC) also provides statewide criminal history information for a nominal fee.
In-Person Requests: Citizens may visit the Dahlonega Police Department or Lumpkin County Sheriff's Office to submit formal requests for arrest records. Requestors should be prepared to present identification and complete the necessary request forms.
Written Requests: Written applications for arrest records can be submitted via mail or email to the appropriate law enforcement agency. The Dahlonega Police Department Open Records Request Form must be completed for such requests.
Municipal Court Records: The Dahlonega Municipal Court maintains records of cases processed through their system, including those stemming from arrests within city limits.
Pursuant to O.C.G.A. § 50-18-71, agencies may charge reasonable fees for search, retrieval, and copying of records. Current fee schedules are available at each respective agency.
Dahlonega Police Department
465 Riley Road
Dahlonega, GA 30533
Phone: 706-864-3636
City of Dahlonega Police Department
Lumpkin County Sheriff's Office
385 East Main Street
Dahlonega, GA 30533
Phone: 706-864-0414
Emergencies: 9-1-1
Lumpkin County Sheriff's Office
Standard arrest records maintained by Dahlonega law enforcement agencies contain comprehensive information as mandated by Georgia state law. These records typically include:
The Georgia Bureau of Investigation maintains standards for arrest record documentation through the Georgia Crime Information Center, ensuring consistency across jurisdictions in accordance with O.C.G.A. § 35-3-33.
Georgia law provides mechanisms for the restriction and sealing of certain arrest records through a process formerly known as expungement, now referred to as record restriction. Under O.C.G.A. § 35-3-37, individuals may qualify for record restriction under specific circumstances:
The record restriction process requires submission of an application to the arresting agency, which then forwards approved requests to the Georgia Crime Information Center. Upon approval, restricted records are sealed from public view but remain accessible to law enforcement agencies and for certain employment purposes as specified by statute.
Individuals seeking record restriction in Dahlonega must file the appropriate petition with the clerk of the court where the case was adjudicated. A filing fee may apply, though fee waivers are available for indigent applicants. The court may schedule a hearing where the petitioner must demonstrate eligibility under the applicable statutory provisions.
Lumpkin County Clerk of Superior Court
325 Riley Road
Dahlonega, GA 30533
Phone: 706-864-3742
Lumpkin County Official Website