Aiken Public Records / Aiken County Arrest Records

Aiken County Arrest Records

Are Arrest Records Public in Aiken County

Arrest records in Aiken County are considered public information under South Carolina's Freedom of Information Act (S.C. Code § 30-4-10). This statute establishes that records created, maintained, or received by a public body are generally accessible to the public, with certain exceptions. Law enforcement agencies in Aiken County, including the Aiken County Sheriff's Office and municipal police departments, maintain arrest records as part of their official duties.

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 the offense in a court of law. Under South Carolina law, both types of records are generally public, though access to certain information may be restricted based on the status of the case or the nature of the charges.

The South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) serves as the central repository for criminal history information in the state and provides guidelines for the dissemination of arrest record information. Pursuant to S.C. Code § 23-3-120, SLED is authorized to maintain a criminal record central repository and to make these records available according to state regulations.

Certain arrest records may be subject to restrictions if they involve:

Juvenile offenders (under 18 years of age)
Ongoing investigations
Cases that have been expunged by court order
Records sealed by judicial directive

What's in Aiken County Arrest Records

Arrest records maintained by Aiken County law enforcement agencies typically contain comprehensive information about individuals who have been taken into custody. These records serve as official documentation of an arrest event and generally include the following categories of information:

Arrestee Identifying Information:

Full legal name
Date of birth
Gender
Race
Height and weight
Address at time of arrest
Identifying marks such as tattoos or scars
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

Charge Information:

Criminal charges filed
Statute or ordinance numbers
Classification of offense (misdemeanor or felony)
Description of alleged criminal activity

Warrant Information (if applicable):

Warrant number
Issuing authority
Date of issuance
Serving officer

Booking Information:

Booking number
Date and time of booking
Booking facility
Property inventory

Bond/Bail Information:

Bond amount
Bond type (personal recognizance, surety, cash)
Bond status (posted or not)
Bond conditions

Court Information:

Court of jurisdiction
Case number
Scheduled court appearances
Name of assigned judge

Custody Status:

Current detention status
Facility of incarceration (if applicable)
Release date (if applicable)

Additional Information May Include:

Prior arrest history
Probation or parole status
Risk assessment information
Medical screening notes (non-confidential)
Emergency contact information

The specific content of arrest records may vary depending on the arresting agency and the circumstances of the arrest. All information is maintained in accordance with South Carolina law enforcement records management standards.

How To Look Up Arrest Records in Aiken County in 2026

Members of the public seeking arrest records in Aiken County may utilize several official channels to obtain this information. The following procedures are currently in place for accessing arrest records:

Visit the Aiken County Sheriff's Office in person:

Aiken County Sheriff's Office
420 Hampton Avenue NE
Aiken, SC 29801
(803) 642-1761
Aiken County Sheriff's Office

Hours of operation: Monday through Friday, 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM

Individuals requesting records must:
- Complete a records request form
- Provide valid government-issued photo identification
- Specify the information being requested
- Pay applicable fees (currently $10 per record search)
Submit a written request:

Written requests may be mailed to the Records Division at the address above and must include:
- Requestor's full name and contact information
- Specific information being requested (name of subject, date of arrest if known)
- Copy of requestor's identification
- Check or money order for applicable fees
Contact the Clerk of Court for case disposition information:

Aiken County Clerk of Court
109 Park Avenue SE
Aiken, SC 29801
(803) 642-1710
Aiken County Clerk of Court

Hours of operation: Monday through Friday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Request records from municipal police departments:

For arrests made by city police departments within Aiken County, contact the specific agency:

Aiken Department of Public Safety
251 Laurens Street NW
Aiken, SC 29801
(803) 642-7620
Aiken Department of Public Safety

North Augusta Department of Public Safety
444 East Buena Vista Avenue
North Augusta, SC 29841
(803) 279-2121
North Augusta Department of Public Safety

Pursuant to S.C. Code § 30-4-30, agencies have 10 business days to respond to records requests, though actual processing time may vary based on the complexity of the request and current workload.

How To Find Aiken County Arrest Records Online

Aiken County provides several digital resources for accessing arrest records online. These electronic systems offer convenient alternatives to in-person requests. The following online methods are currently available:

Aiken County Sheriff's Office Inmate Search:

The Aiken County Sheriff's Office maintains an online inmate search function on their official website. This database includes:
- Current inmates housed in the Aiken County Detention Center
- Recently released inmates (within the past 30 days)
- Basic arrest information
- Charges
- Bond amounts
- Court dates
This resource is updated daily and is available at no cost.
South Carolina Judicial Branch Case Records Search:

The South Carolina Judicial Branch provides a statewide case records search that includes Aiken County cases. Users can search by:
- Name
- Case number
- Filing date
This system primarily provides court case information rather than arrest details, but it can be useful for tracking case progression following an arrest.
SLED CATCH System:

The SLED CATCH (Citizens Access to Criminal Histories) system allows individuals to conduct name-based searches of South Carolina criminal records. This statewide database includes:
- Arrest records
- Conviction information
- Case dispositions
A fee of $25 per search is currently required, and users must create an account to access the system.
Third-Party Aggregator Websites:

Various commercial websites compile public records, including arrest information. However, the Aiken County Sheriff's Office and other official agencies do not endorse these services, and the information may not be current or accurate. Members of the public are advised to rely on official government sources for the most reliable information.

When using online resources, individuals should be aware that some information may be redacted in accordance with privacy laws and that not all arrest records are available through digital platforms.

How To Search Aiken County Arrest Records for Free?

Members of the public have several options for accessing Aiken County arrest records without incurring fees. The following methods are currently available for free searches:

Aiken County Detention Center Inmate Lookup:

The Aiken County Sheriff's Office provides a free online inmate search tool on their official website. This resource allows users to:
- Search for currently incarcerated individuals
- View basic arrest information
- Check charges and bond amounts
- Verify court dates
This service is accessible 24/7 and requires no registration or payment.
Visit the Aiken County Judicial Center Public Access Terminal:

Aiken County Judicial Center
109 Park Avenue SE
Aiken, SC 29802
(803) 642-1710
Aiken County Clerk of Court

Public access terminals are available during regular business hours (Monday through Friday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM). These terminals provide access to:
- Court case information
- Docket schedules
- Case dispositions
No fee is charged for using these terminals, though printing documents may incur a nominal cost.
Attend Bond Court Hearings:

Bond hearings at the Aiken County Bond Court are open to the public and held daily at:

Aiken County Detention Center
435 Wire Road
Aiken, SC 29801
(803) 642-1761

Morning sessions typically begin at 10:00 AM, and afternoon sessions at 3:00 PM. During these hearings, basic information about recent arrests is discussed in open court.
Review Published Arrest Reports:

Local news outlets often publish recent arrest information based on reports provided by law enforcement agencies. These reports typically include:
- Names of arrestees
- Ages
- Charges
- Arrest dates
While not comprehensive, these reports can be accessed at no cost through newspaper websites or social media pages.

It is important to note that while basic arrest information may be available at no cost, comprehensive criminal history reports typically require payment of statutory fees. Additionally, pursuant to S.C. Code § 30-4-30(B), agencies may charge reasonable fees for the search, retrieval, and redaction of records in response to formal requests.

How To Delete Arrest Records in Aiken County

Under South Carolina law, individuals may petition for the expungement or sealing of certain arrest records under specific circumstances. Expungement refers to the legal process of destroying or removing records from public access, while sealing restricts access to records without physically destroying them.

The South Carolina Expungement Statute (S.C. Code § 17-22-910) establishes the legal framework for removing arrest records from public view. The following information outlines the expungement process in Aiken County:

Eligibility for Expungement:

Charges Dismissed or Not Prosecuted:
- Charges that were dismissed
- Cases where the prosecutor declined to prosecute (nolle prosequi)
- Arrests where no charges were filed within the statute of limitations
Not Guilty Verdicts:
- Cases resulting in acquittal after trial
Successful Completion of Diversion Programs:
- Pre-Trial Intervention (PTI)
- Alcohol Education Program (AEP)
- Traffic Education Program (TEP)
- Drug Court
- Veterans Treatment Court
First-Time, Non-Violent Offenses:
- Certain first-time, non-violent convictions after specified waiting periods
- Misdemeanor first offenses with no additional convictions for three years

Expungement Process in Aiken County:

Obtain and Complete Application:

The expungement application is available from:

Aiken County Solicitor's Office
109 Park Avenue SE, Room 106
Aiken, SC 29801
(803) 642-1557
Aiken County Solicitor's Office
Pay Application Fee:
- $310 for most expungements (fees vary by expungement type)
- Fee waivers may be available for indigent applicants
Submit Application for Review:
- Applications are reviewed by the Solicitor's Office
- SLED verification of eligibility is required
- Court approval is necessary
Court Order and Distribution:
- If approved, an expungement order is signed by a Circuit Court judge
- The order is distributed to all agencies holding records
- Agencies must comply with the order within 30 days

Records that cannot be expunged include most violent crimes, sexual offenses, and driving under the influence convictions. Additionally, expunged records may still be accessible to law enforcement agencies for specific purposes, though they will not appear in public record searches.

Individuals seeking expungement are advised that the process typically takes 90-120 days to complete after submission of a complete application.

What Happens After Arrest in Aiken County?

Following an arrest in Aiken County, individuals enter a structured criminal justice process governed by South Carolina law. This process includes several key stages:

Booking and Processing:

After physical arrest, individuals are transported to the Aiken County Detention Center where they undergo:
- Photographing and fingerprinting
- Personal property inventory
- Medical screening
- Background check
- Initial charge documentation
Bond Hearing:

Within 24 hours of arrest, defendants appear before a Magistrate Judge for a bond hearing where:
- Charges are formally presented
- Constitutional rights are explained
- Bond amount and conditions are set
- Initial court date is scheduled
Bond hearings are conducted at the Aiken County Detention Center at 10:00 AM and 3:00 PM daily.
Release or Detention:

Depending on the bond determination, the defendant may:
- Be released on personal recognizance (PR bond)
- Post bail through cash, surety, or property bond
- Remain in custody if unable to post bond or if bond is denied
- Be released with electronic monitoring or other conditions
Preliminary Hearing:

For felony charges, defendants may request a preliminary hearing within 10 days of the bond hearing to:
- Challenge probable cause for the arrest
- Review evidence supporting the charges
- Potentially have charges dismissed or reduced
Formal Charging:

The Aiken County Solicitor's Office reviews the case and determines whether to:
- Issue an indictment through a grand jury (for felonies)
- File an information (for misdemeanors)
- Dismiss or reduce charges
Arraignment:

At arraignment, defendants:
- Are formally informed of charges
- Enter a plea (guilty, not guilty, or no contest)
- May request a jury trial or bench trial
- May be offered plea agreements
Pre-Trial Proceedings:

Before trial, various hearings may occur to:
- Address evidentiary issues
- Consider motions to suppress evidence
- Explore plea negotiations
- Determine trial readiness
Trial:

If the case proceeds to trial, defendants have the right to:
- A jury trial or bench trial
- Present evidence and witnesses
- Cross-examine prosecution witnesses
- Testify or remain silent
Sentencing:

Following conviction (either by plea or trial verdict):
- Pre-sentence investigation may be conducted
- Sentencing hearing is scheduled
- Judge imposes sentence according to South Carolina sentencing guidelines
Post-Conviction:

After sentencing, defendants may:
- Appeal the conviction or sentence
- Apply for alternative sentencing programs
- Serve the imposed sentence

Throughout this process, defendants have constitutional rights including the right to counsel. Those unable to afford an attorney may qualify for representation by the Aiken County Public Defender's Office.

How Long Are Arrest Records Kept in Aiken County?

Arrest records in Aiken County are maintained according to South Carolina's records retention schedules as established by the South Carolina Department of Archives and History and governed by S.C. Code § 30-1-90. These schedules mandate specific retention periods for various types of law enforcement records.

The retention periods for arrest records vary based on the type of record and the agency maintaining them:

Arrest Reports and Booking Information:
- Felony arrests: Permanent retention
- Misdemeanor arrests: 10 years after the date of arrest
- Arrests not resulting in charges: 3 years after the date of arrest
Fingerprint Cards and Photographs:
- Retained permanently by the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED)
- Local copies may be destroyed after confirmation of SLED receipt
Incident Reports Related to Arrests:
- Felony cases: 75 years after case closure
- Misdemeanor cases: 10 years after case closure
- Non-criminal incidents: 5 years after report date
Court Records of Arrests:
- General Sessions Court (felony) records: Permanent retention
- Magistrate Court (misdemeanor) records: 15 years after case disposition
- Municipal Court records: 10 years after case disposition
Detention Center Records:
- Inmate files: 10 years after release from custody
- Booking logs: Permanent retention
- Inmate medical records: 10 years after release

It is important to note that different agencies have different requirements for records retention. For example, the Aiken County Sheriff's Office, municipal police departments, detention facilities, and courts each maintain their own records according to applicable retention schedules.

Even when physical records reach the end of their retention period, information may be maintained in electronic databases for longer periods. The South Carolina Law Enforcement Division maintains a central repository of criminal history information that is retained indefinitely unless expunged by court order.

Records retention serves several important purposes:

Preserves evidence for potential future legal proceedings
Maintains documentation for statistical and research purposes
Ensures accountability of law enforcement agencies
Provides historical documentation of law enforcement activities

Individuals seeking to remove arrest records from public access before the end of the retention period must pursue expungement through the legal process outlined in South Carolina law.

How to Find Mugshots in Aiken County

What Mugshots Are

Mugshots, also known as booking photographs, are official photographs taken during the booking process following an arrest. These images serve as visual identification records of individuals processed into the criminal justice system. In Aiken County, mugshots are typically taken at the Aiken County Detention Center as part of the standard booking procedure.

Where Mugshots Are Maintained

Mugshots in Aiken County are primarily maintained by:

Aiken County Sheriff's Office
420 Hampton Avenue NE
Aiken, SC 29801
(803) 642-1761
Aiken County Sheriff's Office
Aiken County Detention Center
435 Wire Road
Aiken, SC 29801
(803) 642-1761
South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED)
4400 Broad River Road
Columbia, SC 29210
(803) 737-9000
South Carolina Law Enforcement Division

Finding Mugshots

Members of the public seeking mugshots in Aiken County have several options:

In-Person Requests:
- Visit the Aiken County Sheriff's Office Records Division during business hours (Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM)
- Complete a records request form
- Provide identification and specify the mugshot being requested
- Pay applicable fees (typically $10 per photograph)
Written Requests:
- Submit a formal written request to the Sheriff's Office Records Division
- Include the full name of the individual, approximate date of arrest, and your contact information
- Enclose payment for processing fees

Can Mugshots Be Found Online

The Aiken County Sheriff's Office does not currently maintain a public-facing online database of mugshots. However, mugshots may be available through:

Inmate Search Function:
- The Sheriff's Office website provides an inmate search tool that may display mugshots of currently incarcerated individuals
- This resource is limited to current inmates and those recently released
Third-Party Websites:
- Various commercial websites collect and publish mugshots obtained from public records
- These sites are not officially affiliated with Aiken County law enforcement agencies
- Information on these sites may be outdated or inaccurate

Obtaining Mugshots Officially

For the most accurate and current mugshot information, individuals should:

Submit a formal records request to the Aiken County Sheriff's Office
Specify the exact information being sought
Be prepared to provide identification and pay applicable fees
Allow 10-15 business days for processing, as required by South Carolina's Freedom of Information Act

Restrictions on Mugshot Access

Access to mugshots may be restricted in certain circumstances:

Juvenile Records:
- Mugshots of individuals under 18 years of age are generally not public records
- Access is restricted by S.C. Code § 63-19-2030
Expunged Records:
- Mugshots associated with expunged arrests are removed from public access
- Distribution of expunged mugshots is prohibited by law
Ongoing Investigations:
- Mugshots related to active investigations may be temporarily withheld
Privacy Protections:
- South Carolina law provides certain protections against commercial exploitation of mugshots
- S.C. Code § 17-1-60 prohibits websites from charging fees to remove mugshots

Individuals concerned about mugshots appearing online should consult with legal counsel regarding potential remedies, including expungement when eligible.

Lookup Arrest Records in Aiken County

Aiken County Government

Expungement Application

South Carolina Law Enforcement Division

SLED CATCH

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