Vermont Arrest Records

Vermont Public Records /Vermont Arrest Records

Are Arrest Records Public in Vermont?

Yes. Arrest records in Vermont are generally publicly accessible under the Vermont Public Records Act (Title 1, Chapters §315–320 of the Vermont Statutes Annotated), which presumes openness for all public agency records produced in the course of government business. Notably, the law explicitly states that records reflecting the initial arrest of a person, including tickets, citations, or complaints, and the charges themselves are considered public – even if they are part of law enforcement investigations.

However, certain records are exempt from disclosure. Documents dealing with the detection and investigation of crime—such as investigative files, confidential source identities, forensic materials, or technique-sensitive content—may be withheld if their release could interfere with prosecutions, invade privacy, or endanger individuals. The law also allows redaction of sensitive information (e.g., victims’ identities), but agencies cannot withhold an entire record simply because non-public information is contained within it.

What Law Governs Access to Arrest Records in Vermont?

Access to arrest records in Vermont is primarily governed by the Vermont Public Records Act (1 V.S.A. §§ 315-320), which establishes the framework for public access to government records. This law operates under the presumption that government records should be accessible to the public unless specifically exempted by statute.

Additional laws that impact access to arrest records include:

Vermont Criminal History Record Information Act (20 V.S.A. Chapter 117) - Regulates the collection, maintenance, and dissemination of criminal history information
Vermont Rules for Public Access to Court Records - Governs access to records maintained by the Vermont Judiciary
Vermont Statutes Title 13 - Contains provisions related to criminal procedures and records

The Vermont Center for Crime Victim Services also plays a role in implementing policies related to victim notification regarding arrests and case status changes.

These laws collectively establish that while arrest records are generally public, there are important exceptions designed to protect privacy, ongoing investigations, and the rights of individuals who have been arrested but not convicted.

What Information Is Included in a Vermont Arrest Record?

A typical Vermont arrest record contains comprehensive information about the arrest event and the individual involved. These records generally include:

Personal identifying information:
- Full legal name
- Date of birth
- Physical description (height, weight, eye color, hair color)
- Address at time of arrest
- Photograph (mugshot)
- Fingerprints
Arrest details:
- Date and time of arrest
- Location of arrest
- Arresting agency and officer information
- Charges filed
- Booking information
- Case or docket number
Procedural information:
- Bail or bond amount (if applicable)
- Court appearance dates
- Detention facility information (if applicable)
Case disposition:
- Status of charges (pending, dismissed, etc.)
- Court outcomes (if available)

Arrest records document the fact that an arrest occurred but do not necessarily indicate guilt. The information in these records is collected by law enforcement agencies at the time of arrest and may be updated as the case progresses through the criminal justice system.

Some sensitive information may be redacted from publicly available versions of arrest records, particularly in cases involving juveniles, sexual assault victims, or when disclosure might compromise an ongoing investigation.

How To Obtain Arrest Records in Vermont in 2025

Obtaining arrest records in Vermont can be accomplished through several official channels, depending on the specific information needed and the purpose of the request.

The primary methods for obtaining arrest records in Vermont include:

Vermont Crime Information Center (VCIC) - The central repository for criminal history information in Vermont.

Vermont Crime Information Center
45 State Drive
Waterbury, VT 05671-1300
Phone: (802) 244-8727
Vermont Crime Information Center

The VCIC provides both record checks and criminal conviction reports. Requesters must complete the appropriate forms and pay the required fees. For most comprehensive criminal history information, fingerprint-supported requests are required.
Local Law Enforcement Agencies - For recent arrests or incidents in specific jurisdictions.

Contact the police department or sheriff's office in the jurisdiction where the arrest occurred. Many agencies have records divisions that process public requests.
Vermont Judiciary - For court records related to arrests and subsequent proceedings.

Vermont Judiciary Public Portal
Vermont Judiciary Electronic Filing System

The Vermont Judiciary maintains court records related to criminal cases. Many of these records are now accessible through their online portal.
Vermont Department of Corrections - For information about individuals currently in custody or under supervision.

Vermont Department of Corrections
NOB 2 South, 280 State Drive
Waterbury, VT 05671-2000
Phone: (802) 241-2442
Vermont Department of Corrections

To request arrest records in person, you'll typically need to:

Complete a request form
Provide identification
Pay applicable fees
Specify the records you're seeking

For mail requests, similar requirements apply, though processing times may be longer. Always check with the specific agency for their most current procedures and requirements.

How to Find Arrest Records Online in Vermont

Vermont offers several online resources for accessing arrest records and related information digitally. These platforms provide convenient alternatives to in-person requests, though they may have limitations regarding the scope and detail of available information.

Key online resources include:

Vermont Judiciary Public Portal - The official online system for accessing court records in Vermont. Vermont Judiciary Public Portal

This portal allows users to search for court cases by name, case number, or citation number. While not all documents are available online, the system provides basic case information, hearing dates, and disposition information.
Vermont Sex Offender Registry - For information about registered sex offenders. Vermont Sex Offender Registry

This public safety resource provides information about registered sex offenders in Vermont communities.
Vermont Crime Information Center Online Services - For requesting criminal history information. VCIC Online Services

While complete criminal history reports require formal requests, the VCIC website provides information about the process and access to necessary forms.

When using these online resources, it's important to note:

Not all arrest records are available online
Some information may be redacted in publicly accessible versions
Recent arrests may not appear immediately in online systems
User accounts may be required for certain searches
Fees may apply for some types of searches or document retrieval

For the most comprehensive and up-to-date information, combining online searches with formal requests to the appropriate agencies is often the most effective approach.

Who Can Access Arrest Records in Vermont?

Access to arrest records in Vermont varies depending on the requester's identity, purpose, and the specific type of record being sought. Vermont law establishes different levels of access for different categories of users.

General Public Access: The general public can access basic arrest records through:

Court records (unless sealed or expunged)
Public police logs
Published information about arrests
Criminal conviction information through VCIC (with limitations)

Enhanced Access for Authorized Entities: Certain organizations and individuals have broader access rights:

Law Enforcement Agencies - Full access for legitimate law enforcement purposes
Courts and Prosecutors - Complete access for case processing
Defense Attorneys - Access to relevant records for client representation
Government Agencies - Access for licensing, employment screening, and regulatory functions
Employers - Limited access for specific positions (healthcare, education, financial services)

Special Provisions:

Victims of crimes have specific rights to information about their cases under 13 V.S.A. § 5305
Researchers may access anonymized data with appropriate approvals
Media organizations have the same access rights as the general public

Access to juvenile records is significantly more restricted under Vermont law, with special protections in place to shield minors from the long-term consequences of public arrest records.

The Vermont Crime Information Center serves as the gatekeeper for many types of criminal history information, applying statutory standards to determine what information can be released to different requesters.

Are There Fees for Obtaining Arrest Records in Vermont?

Yes, Vermont agencies typically charge fees for providing arrest records and criminal history information. These fees help cover the administrative costs associated with processing requests, retrieving records, and providing copies.

Standard Fee Structure:

Vermont Crime Information Center (VCIC):
- Vermont Criminal Conviction Record: $30
- Vermont Criminal Record Check (non-conviction information): $30
- Fingerprint-supported Criminal History Record: $25
- Combined in-state and FBI background check: $31.25 (state fee) + $13.25 (FBI fee)
Vermont Judiciary:
- Court record searches: $12.00 per name
- Copies of court documents: $0.25 per page
- Certified copies: $5.00 per document plus copy fees
Local Law Enforcement Agencies:
- Fees vary by department, typically $5-$25 per report
- Some agencies may charge additional fees for photographs or other supplemental materials

Fee Waivers and Reductions:

Under certain circumstances, fees may be reduced or waived:

Indigent individuals may qualify for fee waivers through court procedures
Certain non-profit organizations may qualify for reduced fees
Government agencies may be exempt from fees for official purposes
Victims of crimes may access certain records without fees

Payment methods typically include cash, check, money order, and in some cases, credit cards for online services. Always verify the current fee schedule and accepted payment methods with the specific agency before submitting a request, as fees are subject to change.

How Long Are Arrest Records Kept in Vermont

Vermont maintains arrest records for extended periods, with retention schedules varying based on the type of record, the outcome of the case, and the agency maintaining the information.

Standard Retention Periods:

Vermont Crime Information Center (VCIC):
- Arrest fingerprint records: Permanent retention for convicted offenders
- Criminal history information: Maintained indefinitely unless expunged or sealed
- Non-conviction data: May be purged after specific time periods (typically 5-10 years)
Vermont Judiciary:
- Felony case records: Permanent retention
- Misdemeanor case records: 10 years after case closure
- Dismissed cases: May be retained for shorter periods (3-7 years)
Local Law Enforcement:
- Arrest reports: Typically 7-10 years minimum
- Serious felony investigations: Often permanent retention
- Minor offenses: May be purged after 3-7 years

The Vermont State Archives and Records Administration establishes official records retention schedules for state agencies, including those in the criminal justice system, under the authority of 3 V.S.A. § 117.

What Information Is Redacted or Restricted in Vermont Arrest Records?

Vermont law requires certain information to be redacted or restricted from publicly accessible arrest records to protect privacy, ongoing investigations, and vulnerable individuals.

Commonly Redacted Information:

Personal Identifying Information:
- Social Security numbers
- Driver's license numbers
- Financial account information
- Dates of birth (may be partially redacted)
- Home addresses of victims or witnesses
Sensitive Case Information:
- Names of sexual assault victims
- Information identifying minor victims
- Confidential informant identities
- Details that could compromise ongoing investigations
- Grand jury proceedings
Protected Records Categories:
- Juvenile arrest records (with limited exceptions)
- Mental health evaluation information
- Substance abuse treatment records
- Records sealed or expunged by court order
- Information protected by federal laws like HIPAA

The Vermont Rules for Public Access to Court Records specifically outline categories of information that must be redacted before public disclosure, implementing protections found in various state statutes.

Law enforcement agencies and courts apply these redaction requirements before releasing records to the public. When requesting records, be aware that processing times may be extended if extensive redaction is required. In some cases, records may be so heavily redacted that they provide limited useful information.

How To Seal or Destroy Arrest Records in Vermont

Vermont law provides several mechanisms for eligible individuals to seal or expunge arrest records, effectively removing them from public access. These processes are governed primarily by 13 V.S.A. § 7601-7610, which was significantly expanded by recent criminal justice reform legislation.

Eligibility for Expungement or Sealing:

Charges Resulting in Acquittal or Dismissal:
- Records eligible for expungement immediately upon acquittal or dismissal
- Automatic in many cases as of July 1, 2022
Convictions After Waiting Period:
- Misdemeanors: Generally eligible after 5 years from completion of sentence
- Certain felonies: May be eligible after 7-10 years
- Some serious offenses are ineligible (sexual violence, crimes against children)
Decriminalized Conduct:
- Records related to conduct that has been decriminalized (e.g., certain marijuana offenses)
- Often eligible for expedited expungement

Process for Sealing or Expungement:

File a petition with the court where the case was handled
Pay applicable filing fees (may be waived for indigent petitioners)
Notify the Vermont Attorney General's Office and State's Attorney
Attend hearing if required (many petitions are processed without hearings)
If granted, court orders relevant agencies to seal or expunge records

Effect of Sealing or Expungement:

When records are sealed or expunged:

They are removed from public access
The individual may legally state they have not been arrested or convicted
Records remain accessible to law enforcement for limited purposes
Certain licensing boards and agencies may still have access in specific circumstances

For assistance with the expungement process, individuals can contact:

Vermont Legal Aid
264 North Winooski Ave.
Burlington, VT 05401
Phone: (800) 889-2047
Vermont Legal Aid

What Are the Limitations on the Use of Arrest Records in Vermont?

Vermont law places significant restrictions on how arrest records can be used, particularly in employment, housing, and other contexts. These limitations aim to balance public safety with fairness toward individuals with criminal records.

Employment Restrictions:

Employers cannot ask about expunged or sealed records
Under 21 V.S.A. § 495j, employers cannot ask about criminal history on initial job applications ("Ban the Box" law)
Employers must consider:
- The nature of the offense
- Time elapsed since the offense
- Relationship between the offense and the job duties
- Evidence of rehabilitation

Housing Limitations:

Housing providers must follow fair housing laws when considering criminal records
Blanket bans on applicants with any criminal history may violate fair housing principles
Consideration must be given to the nature and recency of offenses

Other Contexts:

Credit and lending decisions cannot be based solely on arrest records without convictions
Insurance providers face restrictions on using certain criminal history information
Professional licensing boards must consider rehabilitation and relevance of offenses

Legal Consequences for Misuse:

Improper use or disclosure of arrest records may result in:

Civil liability
Administrative penalties
Loss of access privileges to criminal history systems
Potential criminal charges for misuse of official information

The Vermont Human Rights Commission enforces many of these protections and can investigate complaints about improper use of criminal records in housing and public accommodations contexts.

Lookup Arrest Records in Vermont

State Repository for Criminal History Records

Vermont Crime Information Center (VCIC)
45 State Drive
Waterbury, VT 05671-1300
Phone: (802) 244-8727
Vermont Crime Information Center

State Department of Public Safety

Vermont Department of Public Safety
45 State Drive
Waterbury, VT 05671-1300
Phone: (802) 244-8600
Vermont Department of Public Safety

State Police

Vermont State Police Headquarters
45 State Drive
Waterbury, VT 05671-1300
Phone: (802) 244-7345
Vermont State Police

State Department of Corrections

Vermont Department of Corrections
NOB 2 South, 280 State Drive
Waterbury, VT 05671-2000
Phone: (802) 241-2442
Vermont Department of Corrections

State Court System

Vermont Judiciary
109 State Street
Montpelier, VT 05609-0701
Phone: (802) 828-4127
Vermont Judiciary

Attorney General's Office

Vermont Attorney General's Office
109 State Street
Montpelier, VT 05609-1001
Phone: (802) 828-3171
Vermont Attorney General

County Sheriff's Offices

Chittenden County Sheriff's Office
70 Ethan Allen Avenue
South Burlington, VT 05403
Phone: (802) 863-4341
Chittenden County Sheriff
Washington County Sheriff's Office
10 Elm Street
Montpelier, VT 05602
Phone: (802) 223-3001
Washington County Sheriff
Rutland County Sheriff's Office
88 Grove Street
Rutland, VT 05701
Phone: (802) 775-8002
Rutland County Sheriff
Windsor County Sheriff's Office
62 Pleasant Street
Woodstock, VT 05091
Phone: (802) 457-5211
Windsor County Sheriff
Franklin County Sheriff's Office
387 Lake Road
St. Albans, VT 05478
Phone: (802) 524-2121
Franklin County Sheriff
Bennington County Sheriff's Office
811 US Route 7
Bennington, VT 05201
Phone: (802) 442-4900
Bennington County Sheriff
Caledonia County Sheriff's Office
970 Memorial Drive
St. Johnsbury, VT 05819
Phone: (802) 748-6666
Caledonia County Sheriff
Orange County Sheriff's Office
11 VT Route 113
Chelsea, VT 05038
Phone: (802) 685-4875
Orange County Sheriff
Addison County Sheriff's Office
35 Court Street
Middlebury, VT 05753
Phone: (802) 388-2981
Addison County Sheriff

Municipal Police Departments

Burlington Police Department
1 North Avenue
Burlington, VT 05401
Phone: (802) 658-2704
Burlington Police Department
Rutland City Police Department
108 Wales Street
Rutland, VT 05701
Phone: (802) 773-1816
Rutland City Police Department
South Burlington Police Department
19 Gregory Drive
South Burlington, VT 05403
Phone: (802) 846-4111
South Burlington Police Department
Colchester Police Department
835 Blakely Road
Colchester, VT 05446
Phone: (802) 264-5555
Colchester Police Department
Essex Police Department
145 Maple Street
Essex Junction, VT 05452
Phone: (802) 878-8331
Essex Police Department

Federal Agencies Operating in Vermont

Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) - Albany Division
(Covers Vermont)
200 McCarty Avenue
Albany, NY 12209
Phone: (518) 465-7551
FBI Albany

U.S. Marshals Service - District of Vermont
11 Elmwood Avenue
Burlington, VT 05401
Phone: (802) 951-6271
U.S. Marshals Service - Vermont

U.S. Courts – District of Vermont
11 Elmwood Avenue, Room 506
Burlington, VT 05401
Phone: (802) 951-6301
U.S. District Court - Vermont