West Virginia Criminal Records Search

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How to Check for West Virginia Criminal Records

West Virginia’s Criminal Identification Bureau is responsible for issuing and approving all criminal background checks for the state. They provide them to government agencies, law enforcement, schools and the general public. They use the IdentoGo system for all automated and phone criminal background checks. On their website, they also offer information on expungement of your criminal record. You can also use a third-party online service to get criminal information on someone.

Federal Records vs. Court Criminal Records in West Virginia

Although each district court has their own website with some online resources, they use the Public Access to Court Electronic Records system (PACER) system for the public to access federal criminal court records. You can also visit the courthouse in person to request documents. For local crimes, you can also visit the courthouse or contact the state police to get copies of publicly accessible reports and information.

How Long do Felony or Misdemeanor Charges Last?

In West Virginia, any felonies and misdemeanors will stay on your record forever unless you apply to have them expunged. If the charges against you were dismissed or you were found not guilty, and you had no other charges, you qualify to petition the court for expungement. You can also apply to have some misdemeanors expunged, but you must follow a strict list of requirements first. Felonies cannot be expunged, and your only option is to have the governor grant you a pardon. Some felonies like sex offenses and violent crime, however, will be on your record forever and cannot be pardoned.

Who Can Lookup your Criminal Background?

Just about anyone can look up your criminal history. This includes banks, hospitals, the military, government agencies, adoption agencies, law enforcement, licensing institutions landlords and the general public as well. You can also quickly get a copy of your own criminal history report using state resources or online search service.

Why Check Someone’s Filed Criminal Charges?

The reasons why you might check on someone’s criminal charges are plentiful. Perhaps you are concerned about a new nanny you just hired to watch your kids. You might decide to start dating someone and want to check him or her out first. Gun dealers use them for selling firearms and property owners use them before renting property.

Types of Criminal Records

The types of information you will see on a typical criminal report are the name, age, address, phone number, email, race, gender, height, weight, physical description and sometimes even mug shots and fingerprints. You will also see charges, warrants, convictions, sex offense, misdemeanors, felonies, DUIs, drug offenses, court dates and activities, dispositions and incarcerations.

How Are WV Criminal Records Created?

Criminal records in West Virginia are created when law officers and other personnel fill out forms, documents, and reports related to your criminal behavior. When you are arrested, a RAP sheet is created. After that, any other event that takes place concerning your crime is documented. These become your criminal record file.