WV Arrest Records Search | West Virginia Jail & Criminal Records
WV arrest records provide public information about individuals who have been arrested by law enforcement agencies across West Virginia.
These records are commonly used by residents, employers, landlords, attorneys, and journalists to look up recent arrests, jail information, or criminal case details.
This guide explains what WV arrest records include, how to search arrest records, check jail rosters, review police logs, use the West Virginia DOC offender search, and where to find official government websites. A basic FAQ section is included at the end.
What Are WV Arrest Records?
A WV arrest record is created when a person is taken into custody by a local police department, county sheriff’s office, or state law enforcement agency in West Virginia.
It’s important to understand that an arrest record does not mean a person has been convicted. It only shows that an arrest occurred.
Information Included in WV Arrest Records
Most West Virginia arrest records include:
- Full name of the arrested individual
- Date of birth or age
- Gender and physical description
- Arrest date and location
- Arresting agency (police or sheriff)
- Charges filed at the time of arrest
- Booking or case number
- Jail or detention center name
- Bail or bond amount
- Custody or release status
Some counties may also display mugshots, depending on local policies.
How to Search WV Arrest Records
There is no single statewide arrest database for West Virginia. Arrest information is spread across county jails, local police departments, courts, and state correctional agencies.
To get the most accurate results, it’s best to search multiple sources.
WV Jail Roster and Inmate Search
The county jail roster is the most reliable place to find recent arrests and current inmates in West Virginia.
What Jail Rosters Show
- Recent bookings and arrests
- Current inmates in custody
- Charges and offense details
- Booking date and time
- Bail or bond information
How to Search a WV Jail Roster
- Identify the county where the arrest likely occurred
- Visit the official county sheriff’s office website
- Look for sections like:
- “Inmate Search”
- “Jail Roster”
- “Inmate Lookup”
- Search by name or booking number
Example Official Sheriff Websites
(Each county manages its own jail system.)
WV Police Arrest Logs and Reports
Local police departments across West Virginia may publish daily arrest logs or incident reports.
What Police Logs Include
- Arrest date and location
- Type of offense
- Incident or report number
- Arresting police department
Police logs are helpful for finding recent city-level arrests, but they usually do not provide full criminal histories.
Police arrest logs are often found on:
- City police department websites
- Local open data portals
- Public records request pages
WV Court Records for Arrest Cases
If an arrest results in criminal charges, the case will appear in West Virginia court records.
Court records may include:
- Filed charges
- Court dates
- Case status
- Final outcomes or dismissals
How to Search WV Court Records
You can search criminal case records through the West Virginia Judiciary system:
Official URL:
https://www.courtswv.gov
This system allows public access to many criminal and magistrate court cases.
West Virginia DOC Offender Search
If a person is convicted and sentenced to state prison, their information will appear in the West Virginia Division of Corrections and Rehabilitation (WVDCR) offender database.
What the DOC Offender Search Shows
- Offender name and ID number
- Current incarceration status
- Facility location
- Conviction details
- Sentence length or release information
DOC searches do not show recent arrests or county jail bookings.
Official DOC Website
Are WV Arrest Records Public?
Yes, most WV arrest records are public under West Virginia’s public records laws. However, access may be restricted if:
- The case involves a juvenile
- The investigation is ongoing
- The record has been sealed or expunged by a court
Sealed or expunged records should not appear in public searches.
Common Reasons People Search WV Arrest Records
- Finding recent arrests in West Virginia
- Employment or tenant background checks
- Legal research
- Personal safety awareness
- Verifying someone’s criminal history
- Reviewing one’s own arrest record
Tips for Searching WV Arrest Records Accurately
- Confirm the correct county or city
- Check spelling of names carefully
- Use date of birth when available
- Search jail, court, and DOC records together
- Remember: arrest does not equal conviction
FAQs
Are WV arrest records free to search?
Yes. Most county jail rosters and court case searches are free online.
How can I find recent arrests in West Virginia?
Check county jail rosters or local police arrest logs.
Do WV arrest records show convictions?
No. Arrest records only show arrests. Convictions appear in court or DOC records.
How long do arrest records stay public in WV?
They remain public unless sealed or expunged by court order.
Can I remove my WV arrest record?
In some cases, yes. West Virginia allows record expungement for eligible cases.
Final Words
WV arrest records are valuable public resources, but they should always be reviewed carefully and responsibly.
For the most accurate information, rely on official county sheriff websites, court systems, and the West Virginia DOC.
If you’re checking your own record, reviewing it regularly can help you correct errors and understand your legal options.
