Understanding Terrebonne Parish Arrest Records and the Terrebonne Jail
Terrebonne Parish, Louisiana, operates within a legal framework that, like all of Louisiana, is governed by the Louisiana Public Records Act. This act ensures public access to government documents, including certain information related to arrests and incarceration within the parish.
Understanding arrest records and information about the Terrebonne Jail is crucial for various reasons. Individuals might seek this information for background checks, legal proceedings, or simply out of personal interest. It’s important to remember that an arrest record is not the same as a criminal record. An arrest indicates that someone has been taken into custody, but it doesn’t necessarily mean they’ve been convicted of a crime.
This article provides a comprehensive guide to navigating Terrebonne Parish arrest records, warrants, and related information. We’ll show you how to obtain arrest records, understand crime statistics within the parish, explore the process of expungement (removing an arrest from your record), and find information about outstanding warrants. We hope to provide a clear and informative resource for anyone seeking information related to the Terrebonne Jail and the legal system within Terrebonne Parish.
Understanding Terrebonne Parish Arrest Records
If you’re looking for information about someone who has been arrested in Terrebonne Parish, it’s helpful to understand how arrest records are managed and what information is available.
Are Arrest Records Public in Terrebonne Parish?
Generally, yes. The Louisiana Public Records Act makes arrest records public, meaning they’re accessible to anyone who requests them. This is based on the idea that transparency in law enforcement is important for accountability.
However, there are some exceptions. For example, if a record has been sealed or expunged, it won’t be available. Privacy concerns or ongoing legal cases can also restrict access in some situations.
Limitations on Access: When Records Might Be Restricted
There are specific reasons why access to an arrest record might be limited. If the information is part of an ongoing investigation or related to pending litigation, it might not be released. Attorney-client privilege can also protect certain information. And, as mentioned before, concerns about someone’s personal privacy can sometimes lead to restrictions.
What Information is Included in a Typical Arrest Record?
An arrest record usually includes identifying information about the person who was arrested, such as their name, physical description, and booking details. It also contains information about the arrest itself, including the charges, bail conditions, and specific details about the circumstances of the arrest.
Accessing Terrebonne Parish Arrest Records
If you need to find out whether someone’s been arrested in Terrebonne Parish, here’s how to go about it.
Official Sources for Obtaining Arrest Records
The Terrebonne Parish Consolidated Government maintains arrest records, so that’s one place to start your search. I’d recommend checking their official website first, or contacting them directly for information on how to obtain these records.
Another good source is the Terrebonne Parish Sheriff’s Office. They should be able to provide information on inmate searches and recent arrests.
Online Resources: Free and Paid Options
The Terrebonne Parish Sheriff’s Office offers a free online inmate search. This can be a quick way to see if someone is currently in custody.
You might also come across third-party websites that claim to have arrest records. Be cautious about these! The information they provide may not be accurate or up-to-date. Always double-check any information you find on these sites with an official source.
Costs Associated with Obtaining Arrest Records
There are often fees involved in getting copies of arrest records. In Terrebonne Parish, it costs $5 per copy for a public arrest information sheet and $15 per copy for full arrest records.
Keep in mind that policies and fees can change, so it’s always a good idea to confirm the details with the relevant authorities before you make a request.
Terrebonne Parish Crime Statistics and Arrest Data
How much crime is there in Terrebonne Parish? Here’s a look at some recent crime statistics:
Overview of Crime Trends in Terrebonne Parish (2017-2018)
Between 2017 and 2018, Terrebonne Parish saw increases in some types of crime and decreases in others, according to the Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) Program data from the FBI.
Crimes that increased during that time include:
- Rape: up 46.2%
- Robbery: up 14.8%
- Property crime: up 2%
- Larceny: up 3%
- Motor vehicle theft: up 10.8%
- Arson: up 16.7%
Crimes that decreased between 2017 and 2018 include:
- Murder: down 50%
- Aggravated assault: down 21.9%
- Burglary: down 5.2%
2022 Arrest Statistics from the Terrebonne Sheriff’s Office
Here’s a breakdown of the number of arrests made for various offenses in Terrebonne Parish during 2022, according to the Terrebonne Parish Sheriff’s Office:
- Simple assault: 566
- Drug abuse violations: 547
- Larceny: 254
- Aggravated assault: 143
- Vandalism: 64
- Burglary: 46
- Weapons charges: 48
- Fraud: 18
- Robbery: 2
- Arson: 2
- Murder: 1
Arrest Records vs. Criminal Records in Louisiana
It’s important to understand the difference between arrest records and criminal records. A criminal record is a broad term that includes arrest records, booking information, court case details, and information about sentencing and incarceration.
In Louisiana, the Louisiana State Police Bureau of Criminal Identification and Information maintains these records and provides criminal history information to the public.
So, how can you get a criminal record in Louisiana?
You can request this information directly from the Louisiana State Police. There’s a fee involved, and the amount depends on how you request the record. In-person criminal record checks cost $36. If you mail in your request, there’s a $26 processing fee. If you need to be fingerprinted as part of the process and choose to do it at the Louisiana State Police, there’s an additional $10 fingerprinting fee.
Expungement of Arrest Records in Terrebonne Parish
Even if you were arrested in Terrebonne Parish, it doesn’t necessarily mean you have a criminal record. If your case was dismissed or you were found not guilty, you may be able to have your arrest record expunged.
Understanding Expungement
Expungement is a legal process that can get certain arrest records removed or sealed, as if they never existed. It’s important to understand that not all crimes qualify for expungement.
The Expungement Process in Louisiana
In Louisiana, filing a petition for expungement involves these steps:
- Gathering the required forms
- Obtaining a copy of your criminal record
- Filing the petition with the court
- Paying the required fees (currently $550)
- Attending a hearing
It’s important to note that you’ll have to list every arrest you’ve ever had on the petition, even if you’re not seeking to have all of them expunged at this time.
Implications of Expungement
Having an arrest record expunged can make it easier to get a job, rent an apartment, or get approved for a loan. It can also give you peace of mind, knowing that your past mistakes won’t continue to haunt you.
However, it’s important to understand that expungement isn’t a complete erasure of your record. Certain government agencies may still be able to access your expunged records under certain circumstances. In addition, it’s important to note that Louisiana law requires you to disclose your expunged record if you’re applying for a job that involves working with children.
Terrebonne Parish Arrest Warrants
If you’re concerned about whether there’s an outstanding warrant for your arrest in Terrebonne Parish, it’s important to understand a few things about how arrest warrants work.
Understanding Arrest Warrants
An arrest warrant is a legal document that authorizes law enforcement officers to arrest a suspect. It’s essentially a judge’s order that gives police the power to take someone into custody.
To get a warrant, law enforcement has to demonstrate “probable cause” to a judge. Probable cause means there’s enough evidence to suggest that a crime has been committed and that the person named in the warrant is likely the one who committed it.
Searching for Arrest Warrants in Terrebonne Parish
It may be possible to search for warrants through the Terrebonne Parish Sheriff’s Office website, but keep in mind that not all warrants may be listed online.
Because online searches may not be comprehensive, it’s always best to contact the Sheriff’s Office directly or consult with an attorney if you have concerns about a potential warrant.
Warrant Expiration and Cancellation
Unlike some other legal documents, arrest warrants in Terrebonne Parish do not expire. They remain active until they are executed or recalled.
Warrants can be canceled or recalled under specific circumstances, such as when the charges are dropped, the suspect is apprehended, or there’s a legal error in the warrant itself.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the capacity of the Terrebonne Parish Jail?
The Terrebonne Parish Jail has a total capacity of approximately 740 beds. This number can fluctuate slightly due to various factors such as ongoing renovations, temporary housing arrangements, and the specific needs of the inmate population.
How to put money on inmate in Terrebonne Parish Jail?
Deposits can be made online via Tigercommissary.com. Deposits can be made by phone by calling 1-888-988-9889. Money orders are accepted through the mail. The money order must be made out to the inmate’s full name and booking number.
Can I search the Terrebonne Parish Jail roster by name?
Yes, you can typically search the Terrebonne Parish Jail roster online by name. The Terrebonne Parish Sheriff’s Office usually provides an online inmate search tool on their website. This tool allows you to search for inmates currently housed in the jail.
How to see if someone is in jail in Louisiana?
To find out if someone is currently incarcerated in a Louisiana jail, you can use the VINELink online search tool. VINELink allows you to search for offenders in various correctional facilities throughout the state. You can also check the websites of individual parish sheriff’s offices, as many provide online inmate rosters.
Final Thoughts
This article covered a lot of ground, from accessing arrest records and understanding crime statistics related to the Terrebonne Parish jail to exploring the processes of expungement and understanding warrants. We’ve looked at how to find information and what that information might mean.
Navigating the legal system can be complicated. Even finding the right information can feel overwhelming. That’s why it’s so important to seek professional legal advice if you’re facing a legal issue or trying to understand your rights. A qualified attorney can guide you through the process and ensure your rights are protected.
In Terrebonne Parish, as in the rest of the United States, public access to information is a cornerstone of our justice system. Open records allow for transparency and accountability. At the same time, it’s important to remember that there are legal and ethical considerations surrounding privacy and the responsible use of information. While arrest records and crime statistics are generally accessible, it’s crucial to use this information responsibly and ethically. The goal is to balance the public’s right to know with the individual’s right to privacy and due process.