Arrest records are public documents in Yuma County, Arizona, pursuant to the Arizona Public Records Law (A.R.S. § 39-121). This statute establishes that "Public records and other matters in the custody of any officer shall be open to inspection by any person at all times during office hours." The law encompasses records maintained by law enforcement agencies, including the Yuma County Sheriff's Office and municipal police departments within the county jurisdiction.
Members of the public may access these records as part of Arizona's commitment to governmental transparency and accountability. The Arizona Supreme Court has consistently upheld the public's right to access government records, including those pertaining to arrests, bookings, and incarcerations, except in cases where specific statutory exemptions apply.
Certain information within arrest records may be redacted in accordance with A.R.S. § 39-123 and § 39-124, which protect personal identifying information, ongoing investigations, and information that might compromise public safety if disclosed.
Yuma County provides digital access to certain arrest records through several official online platforms. The Yuma County Sheriff's Office maintains a current inmate search function on its official website, allowing the public to view information about individuals currently in custody at county detention facilities.
The Arizona Judicial Branch's Public Access portal provides case information for arrests that have resulted in court proceedings. This resource includes case numbers, charges filed, court dates, and disposition information for cases processed through the Yuma County Superior Court and Justice Courts.
Online access is governed by Administrative Order No. 2017-15 from the Arizona Supreme Court, which establishes guidelines for electronic access to court records while balancing public access with privacy concerns. Users should note that:
Multiple methods exist for obtaining arrest records in Yuma County, each with specific procedures and requirements. Individuals seeking these records may utilize the following options:
In-Person Requests:
Online Access:
Written Requests:
Pursuant to A.R.S. § 39-121.03, agencies may charge reasonable fees for the reproduction of public records. Current fee schedules are available from the respective agencies and are subject to periodic revision by the Yuma County Board of Supervisors.
Yuma County arrest records contain standardized information as prescribed by the Arizona Criminal Justice Information System (ACJIS) and local protocols. These records typically include the following elements:
Biographical Information:
Arrest Details:
Case Processing Information:
Identification Records:
The comprehensiveness of publicly available arrest records may vary based on the status of the case, applicable exemptions under A.R.S. § 39-123, and agency policies regarding disclosure of specific elements.
Arizona law provides mechanisms for the sealing or setting aside of certain arrest records under specific circumstances. As of 2025, the process in Yuma County follows the provisions established in A.R.S. § 13-911 through § 13-915, which were substantially revised by legislation effective January 1, 2023.
Eligibility Criteria:
Application Process:
Legal Effect:
The Yuma County Superior Court Clerk's Office processes expungement petitions at:
Yuma County Superior Court
250 W. 2nd Street
Yuma, AZ 85364
(928) 817-4100
Yuma County Superior Court
Individuals seeking expungement are advised that the process involves legal complexities and may benefit from legal counsel. The Yuma County Law Library provides self-help resources for those pursuing expungement without attorney representation.