Story County Arrest Records
Are Arrest Records Public in Story County
Arrest records in Story County are generally considered public information under Iowa's Open Records Law, formally known as Iowa Code Chapter 22. This statute establishes that government records, including those pertaining to arrests, are presumptively open to public inspection unless specifically exempted by law. Pursuant to § 22.2(1), "Every person shall have the right to examine and copy a public record and to publish or otherwise disseminate a public record or the information contained in a public record."
The distinction between arrest records and conviction records is significant under Iowa law. An arrest record documents the apprehension and booking of an individual suspected of committing a crime, while a conviction record indicates that a court has found the individual guilty of the offense. Under Iowa's public records framework, both types of records are generally accessible, though arrest records that do not result in convictions may be subject to certain restrictions after a specified period.
Law enforcement agencies in Story County, including the Story County Sheriff's Office, maintain arrest records in accordance with state regulations. These agencies follow the Iowa Department of Public Safety's records policies, which govern the collection, maintenance, and dissemination of criminal history information throughout the state.
It should be noted that certain information within arrest records may be redacted or withheld under exemptions provided in § 22.7 of the Iowa Code, particularly when disclosure would jeopardize an ongoing investigation or compromise personal privacy beyond what the law permits.
What's in Story County Arrest Records
Story County arrest records contain comprehensive documentation of an individual's interaction with law enforcement during and following an arrest. These records typically include several categories of information:
Arrestee Identifying Information:
- Full legal name (including aliases or known nicknames)
- Date of birth
- Physical description (height, weight, eye and hair color)
- Home address
- Identifying numbers (driver's license, state ID)
- Fingerprints and, in most cases, photographs (mugshots)
Arrest Details:
- Date, time, and location of arrest
- Arresting agency and officer identification
- Circumstances leading to the arrest
- Whether force was used during apprehension
- Miranda rights acknowledgment
Charge Information:
- Criminal charges filed
- Statutory citations of alleged violations
- Classification of offense (misdemeanor or felony)
- Description of alleged criminal activity
- Victim information (with appropriate redactions)
Warrant Information (if applicable):
- Warrant number and issuing court
- Date of issuance
- Judge who signed the warrant
- Probable cause statement
Booking Information:
- Processing date and time
- Booking officer identification
- Property inventory (items in possession at arrest)
- Medical screening results (non-confidential portions)
Bond/Bail Information:
- Bond amount set
- Bond type (cash, surety, personal recognizance)
- Bond payment status
- Conditions of release, if applicable
Court Information:
- Initial appearance date
- Assigned court and judge
- Case number
- Scheduled hearing dates
Custody Status:
- Current detention status
- Housing location within Story County Jail
- Projected release date (if sentenced)
- Transfer information (if applicable)
Additional Information May Include:
- Prior arrest history in Story County
- Known gang affiliations (if documented)
- Special custody requirements
- Probation/parole status at time of arrest
The specific content of arrest records may vary based on the nature of the offense, the arresting agency's protocols, and applicable state regulations governing record-keeping.
How To Look Up Arrest Records in Story County in 2026
Members of the public seeking arrest records in Story County may utilize several official channels to obtain this information. The following procedures are currently in effect for accessing arrest records:
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Submit a formal open records request to the Story County Sheriff's Office. Requests may be submitted in person, by mail, or electronically through the county's Open Records Request portal. Pursuant to Iowa Code § 22.3, the custodian of records must provide access to public records during customary office hours.
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Visit the Story County Sheriff's Office in person to request arrest record information:
Story County Sheriff's Office
1315 South B Avenue
Nevada, IA 50201
(515) 382-6566
Story County Sheriff's Office
Public counter hours: Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM (excluding holidays)
- Contact the Story County Clerk of Court for arrest records that have resulted in court proceedings:
Story County Clerk of Court
1315 South B Avenue, Suite 6
Nevada, IA 50201
(515) 382-7466
Iowa Judicial Branch
- Submit a request to the Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation for a comprehensive criminal history check that includes arrest information:
Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation
215 E 7th Street
Des Moines, IA 50319
(515) 725-6066
Iowa Department of Public Safety
When requesting arrest records, requestors should provide:
- The full name of the subject
- Date of birth (if known)
- Approximate date of arrest (if known)
- Case number (if available)
- Requestor's contact information
Fees may apply for record searches and copies in accordance with Iowa Code § 22.3, which permits agencies to charge reasonable fees that reflect the actual cost of providing the requested records.
How To Find Story County Arrest Records Online
Story County provides several digital resources for accessing arrest records through official online channels. The following methods are available for conducting online searches:
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Story County Sheriff's Office Current Inmate Roster - The Sheriff's Office maintains an online inmate roster that provides information about individuals currently in custody. This resource is updated regularly and includes basic arrest information and custody status.
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Iowa Courts Online Search - The Iowa Judicial Branch offers a comprehensive online records search system that allows users to access court records related to arrests in Story County. This database includes:
- Case information
- Scheduled court appearances
- Case dispositions
- Court orders and judgments
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Sheriff's Office Daily News Releases - The Story County Sheriff's Office publishes daily news releases that often contain information about recent arrests and significant law enforcement activities within the county.
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Iowa Department of Corrections Offender Search - For individuals who have been convicted and sentenced to state custody, the Iowa Department of Corrections maintains an online offender search that includes arrest information:
Iowa Department of Corrections
510 East 12th Street
Des Moines, IA 50319
(515) 725-5701
Iowa Department of Corrections Offender Search
- Iowa Sex Offender Registry - For specific sex offense arrests and convictions, the Iowa Sex Offender Registry provides searchable public information:
Iowa Department of Public Safety
215 E 7th Street
Des Moines, IA 50319
(515) 725-6050
Iowa Sex Offender Registry
When using these online resources, users should note that:
- Information may be updated at different intervals depending on the system
- Some detailed arrest information may require a formal records request
- Certain case details may be restricted from online access pursuant to Iowa Code § 22.7
- Online records should be verified through official channels for complete accuracy
How To Search Story County Arrest Records for Free?
Story County residents and other interested parties may access arrest records without incurring fees through several available channels. The following no-cost options are currently available:
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Story County Sheriff's Office Public Information - The Sheriff's Office provides free access to basic arrest information through their Current Inmate Roster. This resource allows members of the public to view information about individuals currently in custody without charge.
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Sheriff's Office Daily News Releases - The Story County Sheriff's Office regularly publishes news releases containing information about significant arrests and law enforcement activities. These releases are available at no cost through the county website.
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In-Person Record Inspection - Pursuant to Iowa Code § 22.2, individuals have the right to examine public records during regular business hours at no charge. While copying fees may apply, inspection of records is free at:
Story County Sheriff's Office
1315 South B Avenue
Nevada, IA 50201
(515) 382-6566
Story County Sheriff's Office
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Iowa Courts Online - Basic case information is available without charge through the Iowa Courts Online system. While enhanced access requires subscription, fundamental case information related to arrests is accessible at no cost.
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Public Library Access - The Ames Public Library and other county libraries offer free internet access where individuals can utilize the county's online resources:
Ames Public Library
515 Douglas Avenue
Ames, IA 50010
(515) 239-5656
Ames Public Library
When utilizing these free resources, users should be aware that:
- More detailed records may require formal requests and associated fees
- Some information may be redacted in accordance with privacy laws
- Free resources typically provide basic information rather than complete arrest records
- Records available without charge may not include historical arrests or expunged records
How To Delete Arrest Records in Story County
The process of removing arrest records from public access in Story County follows Iowa state law and distinguishes between expungement (legal erasure) and sealing (restricting public access). These remedies are governed by specific provisions in the Iowa Code.
Expungement of Arrest Records
Under Iowa Code § 901C.2, individuals may petition for expungement of arrest records under the following circumstances:
- The case was dismissed with prejudice
- The defendant was acquitted (found not guilty) of all charges
- The defendant has paid all court costs, fees, and financial obligations
To initiate the expungement process:
- Complete an "Application for Expungement of Arrest Records" form
- File the application with the Story County Clerk of Court
- Pay any applicable filing fees
- Attend the scheduled hearing (if required)
Sealing of Criminal Records
For certain offenses, Iowa law permits the sealing of records rather than complete expungement. This process is available under specific circumstances:
- Deferred Judgments - Under Iowa Code § 907.9, records may be sealed after successful completion of probation
- Juvenile Records - Pursuant to Iowa Code § 232.150, juvenile arrest records may be sealed under certain conditions
- Marijuana Possession - First-offense marijuana possession records may be eligible for expungement under Iowa Code § 124.401F
Steps for Record Sealing or Expungement:
- Determine eligibility based on the specific offense and case outcome
- Obtain certified copies of court dispositions from:
Story County Clerk of Court
1315 South B Avenue, Suite 6
Nevada, IA 50201
(515) 382-7466
Iowa Judicial Branch
- Complete the appropriate petition form (varies by type of relief sought)
- File the petition with supporting documentation
- Serve notice to the County Attorney's Office
- Attend the scheduled court hearing
- If granted, ensure the order is distributed to all relevant agencies
It should be noted that expungement or sealing does not completely erase all records in all systems. Certain government agencies may retain access to expunged records for specific purposes, such as law enforcement and judicial proceedings. Additionally, federal agencies may maintain records even after state-level expungement.
Legal assistance is strongly recommended when pursuing expungement or sealing of arrest records to ensure proper procedure is followed.
What Happens After Arrest in Story County?
Following an arrest in Story County, individuals enter a structured criminal justice process governed by Iowa law. This process typically progresses through several defined stages:
Initial Custody and Booking
Upon arrest, individuals are transported to the Story County Jail for processing. The booking procedure includes:
- Photograph and fingerprinting
- Personal property inventory
- Medical screening
- Background check
- Initial charge documentation
Initial Appearance
Within 24 hours of arrest (excluding weekends and holidays), arrestees appear before a magistrate or judge who:
- Informs the individual of the charges
- Advises of constitutional rights
- Makes preliminary determination of probable cause
- Sets bail or conditions of release
- Appoints counsel for indigent defendants
Pretrial Release Considerations
The court determines whether the defendant may be released pending trial based on:
- Nature and circumstances of the charges
- Weight of evidence
- Community ties and flight risk
- Criminal history
- Public safety considerations
Preliminary Hearing
For felony cases, a preliminary hearing may be held within 10 days if the defendant is in custody (20 days if not in custody) to determine if probable cause exists to believe the defendant committed the offense. This step may be waived if:
- The defendant is indicted by a grand jury
- The prosecutor files a trial information
- The defendant waives this right
Formal Charging
The Story County Attorney's Office determines formal charges through:
- Trial Information - Filed by the prosecutor after review
- Grand Jury Indictment - Less common in Iowa state courts
Arraignment
At arraignment, the defendant:
- Is formally presented with charges
- Enters a plea (guilty, not guilty, or no contest)
- Receives trial scheduling information
Pretrial Proceedings
Before trial, several procedural steps occur:
- Discovery exchange between prosecution and defense
- Pretrial motions (e.g., suppression of evidence)
- Plea negotiations
- Pretrial conferences
Trial or Plea Resolution
Cases are resolved through:
- Guilty plea pursuant to agreement
- Trial by judge (bench trial)
- Trial by jury
- Dismissal of charges
Sentencing
If convicted, sentencing follows based on:
- Iowa's sentencing guidelines
- Pre-sentence investigation reports
- Victim impact statements
- Mitigating or aggravating factors
Post-Conviction
After conviction, defendants may pursue:
- Direct appeal to higher courts
- Post-conviction relief
- Expungement (in limited circumstances)
Throughout this process, information is documented in arrest records maintained by the Story County Sheriff's Office and the Iowa Courts system, accessible through established public records procedures.
How Long Are Arrest Records Kept in Story County?
Arrest records in Story County are maintained according to retention schedules established under Iowa Code § 22.7 and the Iowa Records Retention Manual published by the State Records Commission. These schedules establish minimum retention periods for various categories of law enforcement records.
Standard Retention Periods
The Story County Sheriff's Office and other law enforcement agencies within the county adhere to the following retention guidelines:
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Arrest Reports and Booking Information
- Felony arrests: Permanent retention
- Serious misdemeanors: 10 years after case closure
- Simple misdemeanors: 4 years after case closure
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Fingerprint Records
- Adult fingerprints: Permanent retention
- Juvenile fingerprints: Until age 21 unless ordered destroyed by court
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Photographs/Mugshots
- Felony arrests: Permanent retention
- Misdemeanor arrests: Retained according to offense classification
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Investigation Reports
- Homicide/serious felonies: Permanent retention
- Other felonies: 10 years after case closure
- Misdemeanors: 4 years after case closure
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Jail Records
- Booking sheets: 5 years after release
- Inmate medical records: 7 years after release
- Jail logs: 3 years
The Iowa Department of Administrative Services maintains the official records retention schedule that governs these timeframes.
Agency-Specific Retention Practices
Different agencies within Story County may maintain arrest records for varying periods:
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Story County Sheriff's Office - Follows state retention schedules with some records maintained beyond minimum requirements for administrative purposes
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County Attorney's Office - Maintains prosecution files according to case type:
- Felony cases: 10 years after final disposition
- Misdemeanor cases: 3 years after final disposition
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Clerk of Court - Court records related to arrests are generally maintained permanently in the Iowa Courts Online system
Factors Affecting Retention
Several factors may influence how long specific arrest records are maintained:
- Statutory requirements that mandate minimum retention periods
- Court orders for expungement or sealing that modify standard retention
- Administrative needs of law enforcement agencies
- Historical significance of certain cases
- Storage capacity and technological considerations
The retention of arrest records serves important public interests, including:
- Maintaining evidence for potential future legal proceedings
- Supporting law enforcement investigations
- Providing accountability and transparency in the criminal justice system
- Facilitating background checks authorized by law
Individuals seeking information about specific record retention periods should contact the Story County Sheriff's Office Records Division directly.
How to Find Mugshots in Story County
What Mugshots Are
Mugshots, formally known as booking photographs, are official photographs taken during the arrest booking process. In Story County, these photographs serve as visual identification records of individuals processed into the criminal justice system. Typically, mugshots include front-facing and profile views of the arrestee, often accompanied by identifying information such as a booking number.
Where Mugshots Are Maintained
In Story County, booking photographs are primarily maintained by:
- Story County Sheriff's Office - As the agency operating the county jail, the Sheriff's Office captures and maintains mugshots as part of the booking process at:
Story County Sheriff's Office
1315 South B Avenue
Nevada, IA 50201
(515) 382-6566
Story County Sheriff's Office
- Local Police Departments - Municipal police departments within Story County may maintain copies of booking photographs for arrests they process before transferring individuals to county custody.
Finding Mugshots
To locate mugshots in Story County, individuals may:
- Submit a formal open records request to the Story County Sheriff's Office specifically requesting booking photographs
- Provide the full name and date of birth of the subject
- Include the approximate date of arrest if known
- Specify the format in which the mugshot is requested (digital or print)
- Pay any applicable fees for record reproduction
Can Mugshots Be Found Online
Story County's approach to online mugshot availability is governed by Iowa's public records laws and county policy:
- The Current Inmate Roster provides limited information about individuals currently in custody but does not typically include mugshots
- The Sheriff's Office Daily News Releases may occasionally include booking photographs for significant cases
- Unlike some jurisdictions, Story County does not maintain a comprehensive public-facing mugshot database
Obtaining Mugshots Officially
The official process for obtaining booking photographs requires:
- Submission of a written request through the county's Open Records Request process
- Verification of the requestor's identity
- Payment of applicable fees (typically per-page reproduction costs)
- Compliance with any conditions placed on the use of the photographs
Restrictions on Mugshot Access
Access to booking photographs in Story County may be limited under certain circumstances:
- Juvenile mugshots are generally confidential under Iowa Code § 232.147
- Photographs related to ongoing investigations may be temporarily withheld
- Expunged arrest records will not include accessible mugshots
- Certain sensitive cases may have restricted access pursuant to court order
- Commercial use restrictions may apply to reproduced photographs
Individuals seeking mugshots should be aware that while these images are generally considered public records under Iowa law, their availability and the conditions of their release are subject to specific statutory provisions and county policies.
Lookup Arrest Records in Story County
Jail Information | Story County, IA - Official Website
Records Searches | Story County, IA
Current Inmate Roster | Story County, IA