Want to know who’s been arrested in Otter Tail County, Minnesota? In Minnesota, arrest records are generally available to the public, but access is governed by the Minnesota Government Data Practices Act (MGDPA).
It’s important to remember that being on the Otter Tail County in custody list, or any arrest record, doesn’t mean someone is guilty. Everyone is presumed innocent until proven otherwise in court.
This article will give you a brief overview of how to access arrest records, in-custody lists, and information about outstanding warrants in Otter Tail County.
Understanding Minnesota Arrest Records and the MGDPA
In Minnesota, arrest records are generally considered public information, which means they’re accessible to anyone who wants to view them.
That said, there are some exceptions to this rule under the Minnesota Government Data Practices Act (MGDPA). Certain records are kept confidential. These include records related to juveniles, records that have been sealed or expunged, information about ongoing investigations, and some data about victims.
A typical public arrest record will include information about the person who was arrested, the details of the arrest, and the offense that led to the arrest.
Keep in mind that the offense listed on an arrest record may reflect the initial charges filed. Those charges may be amended or changed as the case moves through the legal system, so it’s always a good idea to verify the information you find.
Otter Tail County Arrest Statistics and Crime Trends
Want to get a feel for the types of offenses that lead to arrests in Otter Tail County? Here’s a look at some recent data.
Recent Arrest Trends
Arrests in Otter Tail County jumped by over 20% in 2023 compared to the previous year. In 2022, there were 779 arrests, while 2023 saw that number climb to 949.
Leading Offense Categories
The most common types of crimes that led to arrests fell under the umbrella of “Crimes Against Society,” accounting for 378 arrests in 2023.
Other prominent offenses included assault (188 arrests), driving under the influence (185 arrests), and larceny/theft (140 arrests).
How to find Otter Tail County in-custody lists and arrest records
If you’re interested in Otter Tail County arrest information, there are a few ways to find it.
Otter Tail County In-Custody List
The Otter Tail County in-custody list shows people who are currently being held in the county jail.
This document is interactive, meaning you can click the arrows to scroll through the pages.
The list includes each person’s name and the charges they’re being held on.
Finding Arrest Records
For more detailed information, you can contact the law enforcement agency that made the arrest. Ask them about their procedures and any fees they charge for providing arrest records.
Be aware that you may have to pay a fee to get a copy of a public record. The fee is usually based on how much it costs the agency to find and copy the record.
Online Resources
You can also search for information on these websites:
- Minnesota Department of Corrections (DOC) Offender Locator
- Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP) Inmate Locator
Arrest Warrants in Otter Tail County
An arrest warrant is a legal document that gives law enforcement the go-ahead to arrest someone. To get an arrest warrant, law enforcement has to show there’s a good reason, or “probable cause,” to believe the person committed a crime.
An arrest warrant includes key information, such as the name of the person to be arrested, the offense they’re accused of, and the bail amount, if bail has been set.
How long is an arrest warrant good for? Arrest warrants remain active until the person either turns themselves in or is arrested by law enforcement.
Expunging Otter Tail County Arrest Records
Arrest records are usually permanent, but you may be able to expunge them through legal procedures. Expungement essentially removes the record from public view.
To start the expungement process, you can find sample form letters on the Minnesota Judiciary website. After you fill out the forms, send them to the relevant parties via certified mail, and make sure to keep copies for your records.
Wrapping Up
Accessing Otter Tail County’s in-custody list and other arrest records can provide valuable information. Remember that in Minnesota, these records are generally considered public information, though there are some exceptions to this rule.
It’s essential to use this information responsibly, always keeping in mind that everyone listed is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. Jumping to conclusions can cause real harm.
Finally, this article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice. If you have specific legal questions or concerns, consult with a qualified legal professional.