Navajo County Arrest Records
Are Arrest Records Public in Navajo County
Arrest records in Navajo County are considered public information under Arizona law. Pursuant to Arizona Revised Statutes § 39-121, 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. This statute establishes the foundation for public access to government records, including arrest records maintained by law enforcement agencies within Navajo County.
It is important to distinguish between arrest records and conviction records. An arrest record documents that an individual was taken into custody by law enforcement based on probable cause that they committed a crime. A conviction record, by contrast, indicates that the individual was found guilty of a criminal offense through the judicial process. Under Arizona law, both types of records are generally accessible to the public, though certain exceptions may apply.
The Arizona Department of Public Safety serves as the central repository for criminal history information in the state, including records from Navajo County. While most arrest records are public, access may be restricted for records that have been sealed by court order, juvenile records, or records pertaining to ongoing investigations.
Members of the public seeking arrest records in Navajo County should be aware that the Navajo County Sheriff's Office maintains these records and makes them available through established procedures in compliance with state public records laws.
What's in Navajo County Arrest Records
Arrest records maintained by the Navajo County Sheriff's Office and other law enforcement agencies within the county typically contain comprehensive information about individuals who have been taken into custody. These records serve as official documentation of arrests and include several categories of information:
Arrestee Identifying Information:
- Full legal name (including aliases or known nicknames)
- Date of birth
- Physical description (height, weight, eye color, hair color)
- Gender
- Race/ethnicity
- Residential address
- Identifying marks (tattoos, scars, or other distinguishing features)
- Fingerprints
- Photograph (mugshot)
Arrest Details:
- Date and time of arrest
- Location of arrest
- Arresting agency
- Name and badge number of arresting officer(s)
- Circumstances leading to arrest
- Whether force was used during arrest
Charge Information:
- Criminal charges filed
- Statute or ordinance numbers of alleged violations
- Classification of charges (felony or misdemeanor)
- Description of alleged criminal activity
- Victim information (with certain privacy protections)
Warrant Information (if applicable):
- Warrant number
- Issuing court
- Date of issuance
- Type of warrant (arrest, bench, search)
- Judge who signed the warrant
Booking Information:
- Booking number
- Date and time of booking
- Facility where individual was booked
- Property inventory (items in possession at time of arrest)
- Medical screening information
Bond/Bail Information:
- Bail amount set
- Bond type (cash, surety, personal recognizance)
- Whether bond was posted
- Date of release if bond was posted
Court Information:
- Court of jurisdiction
- Case number
- Scheduled court appearances
- Name of assigned judge
Custody Status:
- Current detention status
- Housing location within detention facility
- Scheduled release date (if applicable)
- Probation or parole status
Additional Information May Include:
- Prior criminal history
- Known gang affiliations
- Immigration status
- Protective orders or restraining orders
- Risk assessment scores
- Behavioral notes during detention
The Navajo County Detention Center maintains current inmate information, including booking details and custody status, which forms part of the comprehensive arrest record.
How To Look Up Arrest Records in Navajo County in 2026
Members of the public seeking arrest records in Navajo County may utilize several methods to access this information. The county maintains systems for both in-person and remote requests in accordance with Arizona public records laws.
To obtain arrest records in person, individuals may follow these steps:
- Visit the Navajo County Sheriff's Office Records Division during regular business hours.
Navajo County Sheriff's Office
137 W Arizona Street
Holbrook, AZ 86025
(928) 524-4300
Navajo County Sheriff's Office
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Complete a public records request form, which requires:
- Requestor's name and contact information
- Specific information about the record being sought (name of arrestee, date of arrest, case number if known)
- Purpose of the request (optional, but may expedite certain requests)
- Signature and date
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Present valid government-issued photo identification.
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Pay applicable fees for record retrieval and copying. Fees are established pursuant to A.R.S. § 39-121.03, which allows agencies to charge reasonable fees for copies, certification, or other services.
For remote requests, individuals may:
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Submit a public records request through the Navajo County website.
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Mail a written request to the Sheriff's Office Records Division at the address provided above.
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Email a completed request form to the designated records custodian.
For arrest records related to tribal lands within Navajo County, separate procedures apply. The Navajo Nation Police Department maintains its own records system for arrests occurring within tribal jurisdiction.
Processing times vary based on the complexity of the request and current workload of records staff. Standard requests are typically processed within 5-10 business days, though more complex requests may require additional time.
How To Find Navajo County Arrest Records Online
Navajo County provides several digital resources for accessing arrest records and related information online. These electronic systems offer convenient alternatives to in-person requests.
The primary online resource for current detention information is the Inmate Housing Report maintained by the Navajo County Sheriff's Office. This database provides real-time information about individuals currently in custody, including:
- Booking number
- Inmate name
- Date of booking
- Charges
- Bond information
- Court dates
To access this information:
- Navigate to the Navajo County Sheriff's Office website
- Select the "Inmate Housing Report" option
- Search by name or booking number
- Review the results displayed
For court records related to arrests, the Arizona Judicial Branch maintains a Public Access Case Lookup system that includes Navajo County cases. This system allows users to search for:
- Criminal cases
- Civil cases
- Traffic violations
- Family court matters
To use this system:
- Visit the Arizona Judicial Branch website
- Select "Public Access to Court Information"
- Choose the appropriate court (Superior Court or Justice Court)
- Enter search criteria (name, case number)
- Review case information, including hearing dates and case status
The Navajo County Superior Court and Justice Courts maintain separate record systems that may be accessed through their respective websites.
For historical arrest records not available through these online systems, individuals must submit a formal records request through the methods outlined in the previous section.
Online access to certain arrest records may be restricted based on privacy laws, ongoing investigations, or court orders sealing specific records.
How To Search Navajo County Arrest Records for Free?
Navajo County residents and other interested parties have several options for accessing arrest records without incurring fees. These no-cost methods provide basic information, though more detailed records may require payment of statutory fees.
The most accessible free resource is the Navajo County Inmate Housing Report, which provides current detention information at no charge. This online database is updated regularly and includes:
- Names of currently detained individuals
- Booking dates
- Charges
- Next court appearance information
To utilize this free resource:
- Access the Navajo County Sheriff's Office website
- Navigate to the Detention section
- Select the Inmate Housing Report link
- Enter search criteria (typically the individual's name)
- Review the results displayed on screen
The Arizona Judicial Branch Public Access Case Lookup system also provides free access to basic case information, including:
- Case numbers
- Parties involved
- Charges filed
- Hearing dates
- Case status
- Judgment information
For in-person research, individuals may visit the public terminals at the Navajo County courthouse locations:
Navajo County Superior Court
100 East Carter Drive
Holbrook, AZ 86025
(928) 524-4188
Navajo County Superior Court
Navajo County Justice Courts (various locations)
Navajo County Justice Courts
These terminals provide free access to public court records, though printing fees may apply for copies of documents.
Local public libraries in Navajo County may also offer free internet access that can be used to search public records databases.
While basic information is available at no cost, comprehensive criminal history reports from the Arizona Department of Public Safety typically require payment of established fees.
How To Delete Arrest Records in Navajo County
Under Arizona law, individuals may petition for the sealing or setting aside of arrest records under specific circumstances. It is important to understand the distinction between these legal remedies:
Record Sealing restricts public access to arrest records but does not completely erase them. Sealed records remain accessible to law enforcement agencies and may be considered in certain legal proceedings.
Setting Aside a Conviction (Arizona's version of expungement) does not delete the record but adds a court order indicating the conviction has been set aside, the charges dismissed, and civil rights restored.
Pursuant to A.R.S. § 13-911, individuals may petition to seal criminal records if:
- The case was dismissed or resulted in a not guilty verdict
- The conviction was set aside under A.R.S. § 13-907
- The person was arrested but no charges were filed
- The statute of limitations expired before charges were filed
The process for sealing or setting aside records in Navajo County includes:
- Determine eligibility based on the nature of the offense and outcome of the case
- Obtain a complete copy of the arrest record and case file
- File a petition with the appropriate court:
Navajo County Superior Court
100 East Carter Drive
Holbrook, AZ 86025
(928) 524-4188
Navajo County Superior Court
- Pay the required filing fee (fee waivers may be available for qualifying individuals)
- Attend the scheduled hearing before a judge
- If granted, ensure the order is distributed to all relevant agencies
For arrests on tribal lands within Navajo County, different procedures apply. The Navajo Nation Information Management Section maintains these records and has separate processes for addressing record corrections or restrictions.
Legal representation is strongly recommended for individuals seeking to seal or set aside arrest records, as the process involves complex legal requirements and procedural rules.
What Happens After Arrest in Navajo County?
Following an arrest in Navajo County, individuals enter a structured criminal justice process governed by Arizona state law and local procedures. This process typically follows these sequential steps:
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Booking and Initial Detention: Upon arrest, individuals are transported to a detention facility where they undergo the booking process. This includes fingerprinting, photographing, personal property inventory, and initial health screening. The Navajo County Detention Center processes arrestees and maintains custody records.
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Initial Appearance: Within 24 hours of arrest, individuals appear before a judge who:
- Informs them of charges
- Advises them of their constitutional rights
- Determines release conditions or sets bail
- Appoints counsel for indigent defendants
- Sets dates for future proceedings
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Charging Decision: The Navajo County Attorney's Office reviews the case and determines whether to file formal charges. This decision is typically made within 48-72 hours for in-custody defendants.
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Arraignment: If charges are filed, defendants appear for arraignment in either Navajo County Superior Court for felonies or Justice Court for misdemeanors. At this hearing, defendants:
- Hear formal charges
- Enter a plea (guilty, not guilty, no contest)
- Receive trial dates if pleading not guilty
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Pretrial Proceedings: This phase includes:
- Discovery exchange between prosecution and defense
- Pretrial motions (e.g., to suppress evidence)
- Plea negotiations
- Status conferences to monitor case progress
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Trial: If the case proceeds to trial, it may be:
- A bench trial (judge only)
- A jury trial (guaranteed for serious offenses under A.R.S. § 21-102)
- The prosecution must prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt
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Sentencing: If convicted, sentencing follows either immediately or at a later hearing. Sentences may include:
- Incarceration in county jail or state prison
- Probation
- Fines and restitution
- Community service
- Treatment programs
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Post-Conviction: Following conviction, defendants may:
- Appeal the verdict or sentence
- Petition for post-conviction relief
- Apply for sentence modification under certain circumstances
For cases involving Native American defendants on tribal lands, jurisdictional complexities may arise. The Navajo Nation Police Department and tribal courts may have primary jurisdiction depending on the nature of the offense and location.
Throughout this process, arrest records are maintained and updated to reflect the current status of the case.
How Long Are Arrest Records Kept in Navajo County?
Arrest records in Navajo County are subject to retention schedules established by Arizona state law and administrative regulations. These schedules vary based on the type of record, the outcome of the case, and the agency maintaining the records.
According to Arizona Revised Statutes § 41-151.12, the Director of the Arizona State Library, Archives and Public Records establishes retention periods for public records, including arrest records. The Arizona State Library Records Management Division publishes these schedules, which law enforcement agencies in Navajo County must follow.
For adult arrest records, the standard retention periods include:
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Felony Arrests: Records are typically retained for 25-99 years, depending on the severity of the offense. Records for the most serious felonies (homicide, sexual assault) are permanently maintained.
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Misdemeanor Arrests: Records are generally retained for 5-25 years, with variations based on offense type.
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Arrests Without Charges: Even when no formal charges are filed, arrest records are typically retained for a minimum of 5 years.
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Booking Records: These are maintained for the same duration as the corresponding arrest records.
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Fingerprint Records: These are permanently maintained by the Arizona Department of Public Safety in the central state repository.
Different agencies within Navajo County maintain separate record systems with potentially different retention periods:
- The Navajo County Sheriff's Office maintains arrest and booking records.
- The Navajo County Attorney's Office maintains prosecution records.
- The Navajo County Superior Court and Justice Courts maintain court case records.
These retention schedules serve several important purposes:
- They ensure evidence preservation for potential future legal proceedings
- They maintain historical documentation for statistical and research purposes
- They provide accountability for law enforcement actions
- They support public safety through access to criminal history information
Records that have reached the end of their retention period may be destroyed in accordance with established procedures, though many agencies now maintain digital archives indefinitely.
How to Find Mugshots in Navajo County
Mugshots, also known as booking photographs, are official photographs taken during the arrest booking process. In Navajo County, these images are considered part of the public arrest record, though access may be subject to certain restrictions.
What Mugshots Are
Mugshots typically include front-facing and profile (side) views of an arrested individual. These photographs serve several law enforcement purposes:
- Documenting the physical appearance of the arrestee at the time of booking
- Aiding in identification of individuals in custody
- Providing visual identification for law enforcement databases
- Creating a verifiable record of the arrest
Where Mugshots Are Maintained
In Navajo County, booking photographs are primarily maintained by:
Navajo County Sheriff's Office
137 W Arizona Street
Holbrook, AZ 86025
(928) 524-4300
Navajo County Sheriff's Office
The Sheriff's Office Records Division serves as the custodian of these records for arrests made by county law enforcement agencies. Municipal police departments within Navajo County may maintain their own booking photograph records.
Finding Mugshots
To obtain booking photographs in Navajo County, individuals may:
- Submit a public records request specifically requesting booking photographs
- Provide identifying information about the arrestee (full name, date of birth, date of arrest if known)
- Pay applicable fees for record retrieval and reproduction
- Allow processing time (typically 5-10 business days)
Can They Be Found Online
Unlike some jurisdictions, Navajo County does not currently maintain a public-facing online database of booking photographs. While the Inmate Housing Report provides information about current inmates, it does not include mugshot images.
Some third-party websites may publish booking photographs obtained from public records, but these sites:
- May not have current or accurate information
- Often charge fees for access or removal
- Are not officially affiliated with Navajo County government
- May not comply with recent Arizona legislation regarding mugshot publication
Obtaining Mugshots Officially
The most reliable method for obtaining accurate booking photographs is through the official records request process with the Navajo County Sheriff's Office. This ensures:
- The images are authentic and unaltered
- The information is current and accurate
- The request is processed in accordance with Arizona public records laws
Restrictions on Mugshot Access
Access to booking photographs may be restricted in certain circumstances:
- Juvenile arrest records are generally confidential under Arizona law
- Records sealed by court order are not publicly accessible
- Records pertaining to ongoing investigations may be temporarily withheld
- Certain victim information may be redacted to protect privacy
The Arizona Department of Public Safety also maintains a central repository of criminal history information, including booking photographs, though access to this database is restricted to authorized agencies and individuals.
Lookup Arrest Records in Navajo County
Navajo County inmate information
Detention facility information
Submit public records requests
Navajo Nation Police Department records
Criminal history records access
Arizona court case lookup system