Sedgwick County Criminal Records
What Is Sedgwick County Criminal Records
Sedgwick County criminal records are official government documents that chronicle an individual's interactions with the criminal justice system within Sedgwick County, Kansas. These records serve as the official documentation of arrests, charges, court proceedings, and case dispositions maintained by various law enforcement and judicial agencies throughout the county.
Criminal records in Sedgwick County encompass several distinct categories:
- Arrest Records: Documentation of when an individual is taken into custody by law enforcement, including the Sedgwick County Sheriff's Office or local police departments. These records typically contain the date of arrest, charges, and booking information.
- Conviction Records: Official documentation of criminal cases resulting in a guilty verdict or plea, whether through trial or plea agreement.
- Felony Records: Documentation of more serious offenses punishable by imprisonment of one year or more in state prison, as defined under Kansas Statute § 21-5102.
- Misdemeanor Records: Documentation of less serious offenses typically punishable by fines or county jail sentences of less than one year.
- Adult vs. Juvenile Records: While adult criminal records are generally public, juvenile records (individuals under 18) are typically sealed and confidential pursuant to Kansas Statute § 38-2312, with limited exceptions.
- Warrant Information: Documentation of active warrants for arrest as well as historical warrant information.
The primary agencies responsible for maintaining criminal records in Sedgwick County include:
Sedgwick County Sheriff's Office
141 W Elm St
Wichita, KS 67203
(316) 660-3900
Sedgwick County Sheriff's Office
18th Judicial District Court
525 N Main St
Wichita, KS 67203
(316) 660-5800
Sedgwick County District Court
Kansas Bureau of Investigation
1620 SW Tyler St
Topeka, KS 66612
(785) 296-8200
Kansas Bureau of Investigation
Wichita Police Department
455 N Main St
Wichita, KS 67202
(316) 268-4111
Wichita Police Department
Comprehensive criminal records typically include documentation of the entire criminal justice process, from initial arrest through final disposition, including:
- Arrest information and booking details
- Formal charges filed by prosecutors
- Arraignment proceedings
- Plea information
- Trial records and transcripts
- Verdict or judgment
- Sentencing information
- Probation and parole records
The maintenance and accessibility of these records are governed by the Kansas Open Records Act (KORA) and related statutes that balance public access with privacy protections.
Are Criminal Records Public In Sedgwick County
Criminal records in Sedgwick County are generally considered public information under the Kansas Open Records Act (KORA), K.S.A. § 45-215 et seq. This statute establishes the presumption that government records, including criminal records, shall be open for public inspection unless specifically exempted by law.
The Kansas Open Records Act states: "It is declared to be the public policy of the state that public records shall be open for inspection by any person unless otherwise provided by this act, and this act shall be liberally construed and applied to promote such policy."
While the general presumption favors public access, several important exceptions and limitations apply to criminal records in Sedgwick County:
-
Public Records: The following criminal records are typically accessible to the public:
- Adult conviction records
- Court proceedings and case dispositions
- Booking information and mugshots
- Criminal charging documents
- Sentencing information
-
Restricted Records: The following categories have limited public access:
- Records of ongoing criminal investigations (temporarily exempt under K.S.A. § 45-221(a)(10))
- Sealed or expunged records pursuant to court order
- Juvenile criminal records (with limited exceptions)
- Records that would constitute an unwarranted invasion of personal privacy
- Criminal history record information restricted by state or federal law
The Sedgwick County District Court maintains public criminal case records that are accessible through both in-person requests and online systems. Similarly, the Sedgwick County Sheriff's Office provides certain booking and inmate information to the public.
Law enforcement agencies may withhold criminal investigative records if disclosure would:
- Interfere with ongoing criminal investigations
- Reveal the identity of confidential sources or undercover agents
- Reveal confidential investigative techniques
- Endanger the life or physical safety of any person
It is important to note that while criminal records are generally public, the methods of access, associated fees, and specific limitations may vary depending on the maintaining agency and the nature of the records sought. Additionally, commercial use of criminal history record information is subject to specific regulations under Kansas law.
How To Look Up Criminal Records In Sedgwick County in 2026
Members of the public seeking criminal records in Sedgwick County may utilize several methods to access this information. The county maintains multiple access points depending on the specific type of record needed and the requesting party's purpose.
In-Person Requests at the District Court:
- Visit the Sedgwick County District Court Clerk's Office during regular business hours (Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, excluding holidays).
- Complete a records request form, providing the subject's full name and, if possible, date of birth or case number.
- Present valid government-issued photo identification.
- Pay applicable search and copy fees (currently $12.00 for record searches plus $0.25 per page for copies).
- For certified copies, additional fees apply (currently $7.00 per certification).
Sedgwick County District Court Clerk's Office
525 N Main St, 1st Floor
Wichita, KS 67203
(316) 660-5800
Sedgwick County District Court
Sheriff's Office Records Requests:
- Visit the Sedgwick County Sheriff's Office Records Division during regular business hours (Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM).
- Complete a records request form, available at the counter or downloadable from the Sheriff's Office website.
- Provide specific information about the incident or individual.
- Pay applicable fees for search and copies (fees vary based on record type).
- For certain records, requestors may need to demonstrate legal interest or authorization.
Sedgwick County Sheriff's Records Division
141 W Elm St
Wichita, KS 67203
(316) 660-3880
Sedgwick County Sheriff's Office
Mail Requests:
- Download and complete the appropriate records request form from the agency website.
- Include a self-addressed stamped envelope.
- Enclose a check or money order for applicable fees.
- Mail the request to the appropriate agency address.
- Allow 7-10 business days for processing.
Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) Criminal History Checks:
For comprehensive statewide criminal history information:
- Submit a request through the Kansas Criminal History Record Check Portal.
- Provide the subject's full name, date of birth, and other identifying information.
- Pay the required fee (currently $20.00 per record check).
- Results are typically available within 2-3 business days.
Kansas Bureau of Investigation
1620 SW Tyler St
Topeka, KS 66612
(785) 296-8200
Kansas Bureau of Investigation
Pursuant to K.S.A. § 22-4707, requestors seeking criminal history information for employment, licensing, or other non-criminal justice purposes must have the subject's signed consent or other legal authorization.
How To Find Criminal Records in Sedgwick County Online?
Sedgwick County offers several online resources for accessing criminal records information. These digital platforms provide convenient alternatives to in-person requests, though the scope and depth of available information may vary by system.
Kansas District Court Public Access Portal:
The Kansas District Court Records Search provides access to court case information, including criminal cases filed in Sedgwick County:
- Visit the Kansas District Court Records Search.
- Select "Sedgwick County" from the dropdown menu.
- Search by name, case number, or filing date.
- The system displays case types, filing dates, charges, and case status.
- Detailed case information, including hearings, judgments, and sentencing, is viewable for most cases.
- Registration is not required, but the system has usage limitations.
Sedgwick County Jail Booking System:
The Sheriff's Office maintains an online inmate lookup system:
- Access the Sedgwick County Jail Inmate Search.
- Search by name or booking number.
- View current inmates, booking dates, charges, bond amounts, and scheduled court dates.
- The system updates multiple times daily.
- No registration is required for basic searches.
Kansas Criminal History Record Check:
For official statewide criminal history information:
- Visit the Kansas Criminal History Record Check Portal.
- Create an account or log in as a guest.
- Enter the required identifying information.
- Pay the required fee (currently $20.00 per search).
- Receive results electronically, typically within 2-3 business days.
- This system provides the most comprehensive criminal history information but requires payment and subject consent for non-criminal justice purposes.
Sedgwick County District Attorney Case Status:
For information on current prosecutions:
- Access the Sedgwick County District Attorney Case Status Search.
- Enter the defendant's name or case number.
- View case status, upcoming court dates, and assigned prosecutor.
- No registration is required.
Kansas Department of Corrections Offender Search:
For information on individuals currently or previously under state supervision:
- Visit the Kansas Department of Corrections Offender Search.
- Search by name or KDOC number.
- View current status, facility location, conviction information, and supervision terms.
- No registration is required.
It is important to note that while these online systems provide significant access to criminal records, certain documents (such as probable cause affidavits, evidence documentation, and sealed records) may only be available through formal in-person or written requests. Additionally, pursuant to K.S.A. § 45-220, agencies may require proper identification for certain record requests, even when initiated online.
Can You Search Sedgwick County Criminal Records for Free?
Sedgwick County provides several options for free access to criminal records, though certain limitations apply regarding the scope and detail of information available without payment. The Kansas Open Records Act, K.S.A. § 45-218, establishes the right to inspect public records during regular business hours, though agencies may charge reasonable fees for providing copies or extensive searches.
Free In-Person Inspection Options:
Members of the public may inspect certain criminal records at no cost at the following locations:
Sedgwick County District Court Clerk's Office
525 N Main St, 1st Floor
Wichita, KS 67203
(316) 660-5800
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Public terminals are available for searching court cases
- Staff assistance for locating specific case files
- Viewing of non-confidential court documents is free
- Fees apply only for copies or certified documents
Sedgwick County Law Library
525 N Main St, 2nd Floor
Wichita, KS 67203
(316) 660-5159
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Public access computers with legal research databases
- Access to court opinions and case law
- Reference assistance from law librarians
- No charge for general research and document viewing
Free Online Resources:
Several online portals provide free access to basic criminal record information:
-
Kansas District Court Records Search - Free access to basic case information, including criminal cases, charges, and status.
-
Sedgwick County Jail Inmate Search - Free lookup of current inmates, booking information, and charges.
-
Sedgwick County Sheriff's Warrant Search - Free search of active warrants in Sedgwick County.
-
Kansas Department of Corrections Offender Search - Free access to information on current and former state inmates and those under supervision.
-
Sedgwick County District Attorney Case Status - Free lookup of current prosecution status and court dates.
Fee-Based Services:
While basic inspection and certain online searches are free, fees apply for:
- Copies of court documents ($0.25 per page)
- Certified copies ($7.00 per certification)
- Record searches requiring staff time ($12.00 per name search)
- Complete criminal history reports from the Kansas Bureau of Investigation ($20.00)
- Expedited processing
- Commercial use of records
Pursuant to K.S.A. § 45-219, agencies may charge reasonable fees for providing access to and copies of public records. These fees are designed to cover the actual costs of providing the records, including staff time, materials, and equipment.
What's Included in a Sedgwick County Criminal Record?
Sedgwick County criminal records typically contain comprehensive information documenting an individual's interactions with the criminal justice system. The specific content may vary depending on the case complexity, maintaining agency, and record type, but generally includes the following categories of information:
Identifying Information:
- Full legal name and known aliases
- Date of birth and age
- Physical description (height, weight, eye/hair color, distinguishing features)
- Booking photograph (mugshot)
- Last known address
- State Identification Number (SID)
- FBI number (if applicable)
- Driver's license number
- Social Security Number (partially redacted in public records)
Arrest Information:
- Date, time, and location of arrest
- Arresting agency and officer information
- Booking number and facility
- Initial charges filed by law enforcement
- Probable cause statement
- Bail or bond amount and status
- Detention facility information
- Release date and conditions (if applicable)
Court Case Information:
- Case number and filing date
- Court of jurisdiction (District Court, Municipal Court)
- Judge assignment
- Formal charges filed by prosecutor
- Statute citations and offense classifications (felony/misdemeanor)
- Plea information
- Attorney representation information
- Court appearance dates
- Motion filings and rulings
- Evidence documentation references
- Witness information (may be redacted)
Disposition Information:
- Verdict or judgment (guilty, not guilty, dismissed, etc.)
- Conviction date
- Sentencing details:
- Incarceration terms and location
- Probation conditions and duration
- Fines, fees, and court costs
- Restitution orders
- Community service requirements
- Treatment program mandates
- Appeal information (if applicable)
- Probation/parole status and violations
- Completion or termination of sentence
Additional Information:
- Active or historical warrant information
- Protective or restraining orders
- Sex offender registration requirements
- Habitual offender status
- DUI/DWI history
- Traffic violations connected to criminal cases
- Pending charges in other jurisdictions
- Prior criminal history references
- Post-conviction relief petitions
- Expungement or sealing orders
Criminal records maintained by the Sedgwick County Sheriff's Office may emphasize arrest and booking details, while District Court records focus on case proceedings, judgments, and sentencing information. The Kansas Bureau of Investigation maintains the most comprehensive criminal history records, integrating information from multiple agencies across the state.
Pursuant to K.S.A. § 22-4701 et seq, criminal history record information is subject to specific regulations regarding its collection, maintenance, and dissemination, with certain information restricted based on the requestor's identity and purpose.
How Long Does Sedgwick County Keep Criminal Records?
Sedgwick County maintains criminal records according to retention schedules established by the Kansas State Records Board and local policies. These schedules vary by record type, offense severity, and maintaining agency. The retention periods ensure proper documentation while balancing administrative needs, historical value, and individual privacy concerns.
Court Records Retention:
The 18th Judicial District Court in Sedgwick County follows the Kansas Judicial Records Retention Schedule pursuant to Kansas Supreme Court Rule 108, which establishes the following retention periods:
-
Felony Case Files:
- Capital murder and off-grid felonies: Permanent retention
- Severity level 1-4 felonies: 50 years after final disposition
- Severity level 5-10 felonies: 25 years after final disposition
- Dismissed felony cases: 5 years after dismissal
-
Misdemeanor Case Files:
- Class A and B misdemeanors: 10 years after final disposition
- Class C misdemeanors and traffic infractions: 5 years after final disposition
- Dismissed misdemeanor cases: 3 years after dismissal
-
Probation Records:
- Felony probation: Same as underlying case file
- Misdemeanor probation: Same as underlying case file
- Probation violation reports: Same as underlying case file
-
Diversion Records:
- Successful diversions: 5 years after completion
- Unsuccessful diversions: Same as underlying case type
Law Enforcement Records Retention:
The Sedgwick County Sheriff's Office maintains records according to the Kansas Local Government Records Retention Schedule established under K.S.A. § 45-404:
-
Arrest Records:
- Adult felony arrests: 5 years after case closure
- Adult misdemeanor arrests: 5 years after case closure
- Juvenile arrests: Until age 21 or 5 years, whichever is longer
-
Investigation Files:
- Homicide investigations: Permanent retention
- Felony investigations with arrests: 5 years after case closure
- Felony investigations without arrests: 5 years after statute of limitations expires
- Misdemeanor investigations: 5 years after case closure
-
Booking Records:
- Booking photographs and fingerprints: 5 years after release
- Booking reports and logs: 5 years
-
Incident Reports:
- Reports resulting in arrests: 5 years after case closure
- Reports not resulting in arrests: 5 years
Kansas Bureau of Investigation Records:
The Kansas Bureau of Investigation maintains criminal history records according to K.S.A. § 22-4701 et seq:
- Criminal History Records:
- Felony conviction records: 80 years after creation
- Misdemeanor conviction records: 10 years after creation
- Non-conviction records (arrests without charges, acquittals, dismissals): 5 years unless ordered expunged
Expungement and Sealing:
Under K.S.A. § 21-6614, certain criminal records may be eligible for expungement after specified waiting periods:
- Most misdemeanors: 3 years after completion of sentence
- Most felonies: 5 years after completion of sentence
- Certain serious felonies: 10 years after completion of sentence
When records are expunged, they are not destroyed but are sealed from public view and can only be accessed by court order or for specific statutory purposes. Law enforcement agencies and courts may maintain sealed indices of expunged records for internal reference.