McLean Public Records / McLean County Arrest Records

McLean County Arrest Records

Are Arrest Records Public in McLean County

Arrest records in McLean County are considered public information under the Illinois Freedom of Information Act (5 ILCS 140). This statute establishes the presumption that all government records, including arrest records, are accessible to the public unless specifically exempted by law. The Illinois State Records Act further mandates that public bodies maintain and preserve public records in accordance with established retention schedules.

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 on suspicion of criminal activity, while a conviction record indicates that the individual was found guilty of a criminal offense through the judicial process. Under Illinois law, both types of records are generally accessible to the public, though certain exemptions may apply.

The Illinois Criminal Identification Act (20 ILCS 2630) governs the dissemination of criminal history record information by law enforcement agencies. Pursuant to this statute, the McLean County Sheriff's Office maintains arrest records and makes them available to the public with certain restrictions to protect ongoing investigations, juvenile records, and other sensitive information.

Members of the public seeking arrest records in McLean County should be aware that while these records are generally accessible, certain information may be redacted to protect privacy interests or sensitive investigative details as permitted under § 7 of the Illinois Freedom of Information Act.

What's in McLean County Arrest Records

McLean County arrest records contain comprehensive documentation of an individual's interaction with law enforcement during and following an arrest. These records typically include the following 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
Home address
Identifying marks (tattoos, scars, etc.)
Fingerprints
Photograph (mugshot)

Arrest Details:

Date and time of arrest
Location of arrest
Arresting agency (e.g., McLean County Sheriff's Office, Bloomington Police Department)
Names and badge numbers of arresting officers
Circumstances leading to arrest
Whether force was used during arrest

Charge Information:

Criminal charges filed
Statute citations for alleged violations
Classification of charges (felony, misdemeanor, etc.)
Description of alleged criminal activity

Warrant Information (if applicable):

Warrant number
Issuing court
Date of issuance
Type of warrant (arrest, bench, search)

Booking Information:

Booking number
Date and time of booking
Booking facility
Property inventory
Medical screening information

Bond/Bail Information:

Bond amount
Bond type (cash, personal recognizance, etc.)
Bond conditions
Whether bond was posted
Date of release (if applicable)

Court Information:

Court case number
Assigned judge
Scheduled court appearances
Court of jurisdiction

Custody Status:

Current detention status
Facility of incarceration (if applicable)
Expected release date (if sentenced)

Additional Information May Include:

Prior arrest history
Known associates
Vehicle information
Victim information (often redacted in public records)
Witness statements (often redacted in public records)
Evidence collected

It should be noted that pursuant to the Illinois Criminal Identification Act, certain sensitive information may be redacted from public arrest records, including information that could compromise ongoing investigations, juvenile records, and certain personal identifying information.

How To Look Up Arrest Records in McLean County in 2026

Members of the public seeking arrest records in McLean County may utilize several methods to access this information. The following procedures are currently in place for obtaining arrest records:

Submit a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) Request
- Complete the FOIA request form available on the McLean County Sheriff's Office website
- Specify the information being requested, including the name of the individual, approximate date of arrest, and any other identifying information
- Submit the completed form in person, by mail, or electronically
Visit the McLean County Sheriff's Office in person

McLean County Sheriff's Office
104 W. Front Street
Bloomington, IL 61701
(309) 888-5034
McLean County Sheriff's Office

Public Counter Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM (excluding holidays)
Check the McLean County Sheriff's Blotter
- The Sheriff's Office maintains a public blotter of recent arrests and incidents
- This resource is updated regularly and provides basic information about recent law enforcement activity
Contact the McLean County Circuit Clerk's Office

McLean County Circuit Clerk
104 W. Front Street, Room 404
Bloomington, IL 61701
(309) 888-5301
McLean County Circuit Clerk

Public Counter Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM (excluding holidays)
Request Records from Municipal Police Departments

Bloomington Police Department
305 S. East Street
Bloomington, IL 61701
(309) 820-8888
Bloomington Police Department

Normal Police Department
100 E. Phoenix Avenue
Normal, IL 61761
(309) 454-9535
Normal Police Department

When requesting arrest records, requestors should provide as much specific information as possible to facilitate the search process. Pursuant to the Illinois Freedom of Information Act (5 ILCS 140/3), public bodies must respond to FOIA requests within 5 business days, though this period may be extended under certain circumstances.

How To Find McLean County Arrest Records Online

McLean County provides several online resources for accessing arrest records and related information. The following digital platforms are available for conducting online searches:

McLean County Sheriff's Blotter
- The Sheriff's Office maintains an online blotter that lists recent arrests and incidents
- This resource is updated regularly and provides basic information about law enforcement activity
- Users can view arrest information including names, charges, and booking dates
McLean County Circuit Clerk Public Access System
- The McLean County Circuit Clerk's Public Access System allows users to search for criminal and traffic cases
- Search parameters include name, case number, and filing date
- The system provides case information including charges, court dates, and disposition
- Users should note that this system contains court records rather than arrest records, though the information is often related
McLean County Court Records Search
- The Court Records Search portal provides access to court cases that may be associated with arrests
- This resource allows users to search by name, case number, or filing date
- Results include case status, charges, and scheduled court appearances
Illinois Department of Corrections Inmate Search
- For individuals who have been convicted and sentenced to state prison, the Illinois Department of Corrections Inmate Search provides custody information
- This database includes current inmates and those released within the past year
- Search parameters include name and IDOC number

When using these online resources, users should be aware that:

Information may not be comprehensive or may be subject to redactions
Recent arrests may not appear immediately in online databases
Name searches should include possible variations or aliases
Some detailed arrest information may require a formal FOIA request
Online records typically do not include juvenile arrests or sealed/expunged records

Pursuant to the Illinois Criminal Identification Act (20 ILCS 2630/5), certain arrest information may be restricted from public access, particularly in cases involving juveniles or where records have been sealed or expunged by court order.

How To Search McLean County Arrest Records for Free?

McLean County residents and members of the public may access arrest records without charge through several available channels. The following methods provide cost-free access to arrest record information:

McLean County Sheriff's Online Blotter
- The Sheriff's Office maintains a free public blotter listing recent arrests and incidents
- This resource is updated regularly and requires no login or payment
- Information typically includes arrestee name, charges, and booking date
In-Person FOIA Requests
- Initial FOIA requests for arrest records can be submitted without charge
- Visit the McLean County Sheriff's Office during business hours:
McLean County Sheriff's Office
104 W. Front Street
Bloomington, IL 61701
(309) 888-5034
McLean County Sheriff's Office
- While the initial request is free, copying fees may apply for physical documents (typically $0.15-$0.25 per page)
- Pursuant to 5 ILCS 140/6, the first 50 pages of black and white copies are provided free of charge
McLean County Circuit Clerk's Public Access System
- The online court records database is available at no cost
- Users can search by name or case number to locate court records related to arrests
- This system provides information on criminal cases, including charges and court dates
Public Access Terminals
- Free public access terminals are available at the McLean County Law & Justice Center
- Located at 104 W. Front Street, Bloomington, IL 61701
- These terminals provide access to court records that may contain arrest information
- No fee is required to use these terminals during regular business hours
Public Library Resources
- The Bloomington Public Library and Normal Public Library offer free internet access
- Patrons can use library computers to access the county's online resources
- Library staff may provide assistance in navigating public records websites

When searching for free arrest records, requestors should be aware that:

While initial access is free, fees may apply for certified copies or extensive document reproduction
Some detailed information may require a formal FOIA request
Records that have been sealed or expunged will not be available through public searches
Juvenile records are generally not accessible to the public pursuant to the Illinois Juvenile Court Act (705 ILCS 405/1-7)
Free resources may not provide the most comprehensive or detailed information

The Illinois Freedom of Information Act establishes that public bodies may not charge for the first 50 pages of black and white copies, and any additional fees must be limited to the actual cost of reproduction and delivery.

How To Delete Arrest Records in McLean County

In Illinois, including McLean County, individuals cannot technically "delete" arrest records, but may petition for expungement or sealing under specific circumstances. Expungement effectively removes records from public view, while sealing restricts access to certain authorized entities. The following information outlines the available processes:

Expungement vs. Sealing:

Expungement: Records are physically destroyed or returned to the petitioner; the arrest is treated as if it never occurred
Sealing: Records remain intact but are made confidential and unavailable to most employers and the general public

Eligibility for Expungement: Under 20 ILCS 2630/5.2, expungement may be available for:

Arrests that did not lead to charges
Cases resulting in acquittal or dismissal
Certain non-conviction dispositions
Some misdemeanor convictions after a waiting period
Certain felony convictions as specified by statute

Eligibility for Sealing:

Most misdemeanor convictions
Certain felony convictions as enumerated in the statute
Cases with successful completion of court supervision or probation
First-time drug offenses with successful completion of treatment programs

Process for Expungement or Sealing in McLean County:

Obtain Criminal History Transcript
- Request a copy of your criminal history from the McLean County Sheriff's Office or the Illinois State Police
Complete Required Forms
- Obtain and complete the "Request to Expunge & Impound and/or Seal Criminal Records" form
- Forms are available at the McLean County Circuit Clerk's Office or online through the Illinois Courts website
File Petition with Circuit Clerk

McLean County Circuit Clerk
104 W. Front Street, Room 404
Bloomington, IL 61701
(309) 888-5301
McLean County Circuit Clerk
- Pay the required filing fee (approximately $120-160, though fee waivers may be available)
- Provide copies for all agencies that hold records (State's Attorney, arresting agency, Illinois State Police)
Attend Hearing (if required)
- If objections are filed by any agency, a hearing will be scheduled
- Present your case before a judge who will make the final determination
Receive Court Order
- If granted, the court will issue an order for expungement or sealing
- The order will be sent to all relevant agencies

Important Considerations:

Waiting periods apply depending on the offense and disposition
Certain offenses, including most violent felonies, DUI, and sex offenses, cannot be expunged or sealed
The process typically takes 3-6 months to complete
Expungement/sealing only applies to Illinois records; federal records or those in other states are not affected
Even sealed records remain accessible to law enforcement and certain employers

The Cannabis Regulation and Tax Act (410 ILCS 705) provides for automatic expungement of certain minor cannabis offenses, which may apply to some McLean County arrest records without requiring individual petition.

What Happens After Arrest in McLean County?

Following an arrest in McLean County, individuals enter a structured criminal justice process governed by Illinois law. This process typically progresses through the following stages:

Arrest and Booking
- Upon arrest, individuals are transported to a detention facility, typically the McLean County Detention Facility
- During booking, personal information is recorded, fingerprints and photographs are taken, and personal property is inventoried
- A preliminary health screening is conducted
- The arrestee may be permitted to make phone calls
Bond Determination
- For most offenses, bond is set according to a schedule or by a judge
- Illinois has implemented bail reform through the Pretrial Fairness Act, which eliminates cash bail for many offenses
- Factors considered include the nature of charges, criminal history, and flight risk
- Bond hearings typically occur within 48 hours of arrest
Initial Appearance/Arraignment
- The defendant appears before a judge at the McLean County Law & Justice Center
- Charges are formally presented, and the defendant enters a plea
- If the defendant cannot afford an attorney, the court may appoint a public defender
- Pretrial release conditions may be established or modified
Preliminary Hearing or Grand Jury (for felonies)
- For felony cases, a preliminary hearing determines if probable cause exists
- Alternatively, the State's Attorney may present evidence to a grand jury
- If probable cause is established, the case proceeds; if not, charges may be dismissed
Pretrial Proceedings
- Discovery: Exchange of evidence between prosecution and defense
- Pretrial motions: Requests to suppress evidence, dismiss charges, etc.
- Status hearings: Updates on case progress and potential plea negotiations
- Pretrial services: Supervision and support for defendants released pending trial
Trial or Plea Agreement
- Most cases resolve through plea agreements negotiated between the defendant and the State's Attorney's Office
- If no agreement is reached, the case proceeds to trial
- Defendants may choose a bench trial (judge only) or jury trial
- The prosecution must prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt
Sentencing (if convicted)
- Following conviction, the judge determines the appropriate sentence
- Sentencing options may include probation, conditional discharge, periodic imprisonment, or incarceration
- Factors considered include the nature of the offense, criminal history, and statutory guidelines
- Victims may provide impact statements
Post-Conviction Proceedings
- Defendants have the right to appeal convictions or sentences
- Appeals must be filed within 30 days of sentencing
- Post-conviction relief may be sought based on constitutional violations or newly discovered evidence

Throughout this process, cases are tracked in the McLean County Circuit Court system, and records are maintained by the McLean County Circuit Clerk. The McLean County State's Attorney prosecutes cases, while the Public Defender's Office represents indigent defendants.

For minor offenses, diversion programs may be available, including drug court, mental health court, and veterans court, which focus on rehabilitation rather than punishment.

How Long Are Arrest Records Kept in McLean County?

Arrest records in McLean County are maintained according to retention schedules established by the Illinois State Records Act and the Local Records Act. These statutes govern how long different types of records must be preserved before they may be destroyed or archived. The following retention periods currently apply:

Law Enforcement Records Retention:

Arrest reports for felony offenses: Permanent retention
Arrest reports for misdemeanor offenses: Minimum of 5 years
Arrest reports for ordinance violations: Minimum of 5 years
Juvenile arrest records: Until the individual's 18th birthday (with exceptions for serious offenses)
Booking photographs (mugshots): Retained with corresponding arrest records
Fingerprint cards: Permanent retention by the Illinois State Police

Court Records Retention:

Felony case files: Permanent retention
Misdemeanor case files: Minimum of 10 years after case disposition
Traffic case files: Minimum of 7 years after case disposition
Ordinance violation files: Minimum of 5 years after case disposition

The McLean County Sheriff's Office and the Circuit Clerk's Office must adhere to these minimum retention periods, though in practice, many records are kept longer than required by law. Digital records management systems have made indefinite retention more feasible, resulting in many records being preserved beyond the statutory minimums.

It is important to note that even after physical records reach the end of their retention period, information may persist in various databases. The Illinois State Police maintains the central repository for criminal history information in the state, and these records are generally kept indefinitely unless expunged or sealed by court order.

Pursuant to 20 ILCS 2630/5, certain arrest records may be eligible for automatic expungement, particularly for minor cannabis offenses following the passage of the Cannabis Regulation and Tax Act. Additionally, arrests that did not lead to charges or convictions may be eligible for earlier expungement.

The retention of arrest records serves several important purposes:

Preserves evidence that may be needed for future legal proceedings
Provides documentation for background checks and security clearances
Assists law enforcement in identifying patterns of criminal activity
Maintains historical records for statistical and research purposes
Ensures accountability in the criminal justice system

Individuals seeking information about specific record retention periods should contact the McLean County Circuit Clerk's Office or the McLean County Sheriff's Office directly.

How to Find Mugshots in McLean County

What Mugshots Are

Mugshots, or booking photographs, are official photographs taken during the booking process following an arrest. These images typically show the front and side profile of an arrested individual and serve as visual identification records within the criminal justice system. In McLean County, mugshots are created as part of the standard booking procedure at the McLean County Detention Facility.

Where Mugshots Are Maintained

Mugshots in McLean County are primarily maintained by the following agencies:

McLean County Sheriff's Office
104 W. Front Street
Bloomington, IL 61701
(309) 888-5034
McLean County Sheriff's Office

McLean County Detention Facility
104 W. Front Street
Bloomington, IL 61701
(309) 888-5550
McLean County Detention Facility

These photographs are stored in law enforcement databases and are considered part of the official arrest record. Unlike some jurisdictions, McLean County does not maintain a public-facing database specifically for mugshots.

Finding Mugshots

To obtain mugshots in McLean County, individuals may:

Submit a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request to the McLean County Sheriff's Office
- Requests must be submitted in writing using the official FOIA request form
- Include specific information about the arrest (name, date of arrest, case number if available)
- Clearly state that you are requesting the booking photograph/mugshot
Contact the arresting agency directly
- If the arrest was made by a municipal police department rather than the Sheriff's Office, contact that department:
Bloomington Police Department
305 S. East Street
Bloomington, IL 61701
(309) 820-8888
Bloomington Police Department

Normal Police Department
100 E. Phoenix Avenue
Normal, IL 61761
(309) 454-9535
Normal Police Department

Can They Be Found Online

McLean County does not currently maintain an official online database where the public can freely access mugshots. Unlike some jurisdictions that publish booking photos on sheriff's office websites, McLean County has adopted a more restrictive approach to mugshot dissemination. This policy aligns with growing concerns about the impact of publicly available mugshots on individuals' privacy and presumption of innocence.

While some third-party websites may publish mugshots obtained from various sources, these sites are not officially affiliated with McLean County law enforcement agencies and may contain outdated or inaccurate information.

Obtaining Mugshots Officially

The most reliable method for obtaining official mugshots is through a formal FOIA request. When submitting such a request:

Be specific about the individual and arrest date
Explain the purpose for requesting the mugshot
Be prepared to pay reasonable reproduction fees
Allow 5 business days for a response (extensions may apply)

Restrictions on Mugshot Access

Access to mugshots in McLean County is subject to several important restrictions:

Juvenile mugshots are generally not available to the public under the Illinois Juvenile Court Act
Mugshots related to sealed or expunged records are not accessible
Law enforcement may withhold mugshots if release would interfere with pending proceedings or investigations
The Illinois FOIA (5 ILCS 140/7) provides exemptions that may apply to certain mugshot requests

The Illinois General Assembly has enacted legislation (50 ILCS 205/4a) restricting commercial websites from charging fees to remove mugshots, reflecting growing concern about the ethical implications of mugshot publication.

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