Berkshire County Arrest Records
Are Arrest Records Public in Berkshire County
Arrest records in Berkshire County are considered public records under Massachusetts Public Records Law, M.G.L. c. 66, § 10. This statute establishes that most government records, including those created by law enforcement agencies, are presumptively public unless specifically exempted by law. The Massachusetts Public Records Law operates under the principle that government transparency serves the public interest.
However, 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 a criminal offense through the judicial process. Under Massachusetts law, both types of records are generally accessible to the public, though with certain limitations.
The Massachusetts State Police and local law enforcement agencies in Berkshire County maintain arrest records in accordance with the Criminal Offender Record Information (CORI) law, which governs the dissemination of criminal history information. While the CORI law places some restrictions on access to certain criminal history information, basic arrest data typically remains available to the public.
Pursuant to M.G.L. c. 6, § 172, members of the public may request certain criminal offender record information, though the level of detail available depends on the requester's status and the purpose of the request. Standard access is available to any member of the public, while enhanced access may be restricted to certain authorized entities.
What's in Berkshire County Arrest Records
Arrest records maintained by law enforcement agencies in Berkshire County typically contain comprehensive information about individuals who have been taken into custody. These records serve as official documentation of arrests and contain several categories of information:
Arrestee Identifying Information:
- Full legal name (including aliases or known nicknames)
- Date of birth
- Gender
- Race/ethnicity
- Physical description (height, weight, eye color, hair color)
- Photograph (mugshot)
- Fingerprints
- Home address
- Identification numbers (state ID, driver's license, Social Security Number)
Arrest Details:
- Date and time of arrest
- Location of arrest
- Arresting agency
- Names and badge numbers of arresting officers
- Circumstances leading to arrest
- Whether force was used during arrest
Charge Information:
- Criminal charges filed
- Statutory citations for alleged violations
- Classification of charges (felony or misdemeanor)
- Description of alleged criminal activity
Warrant Information (if applicable):
- Warrant number
- Issuing court
- Date of issuance
- Reason for warrant
Booking Information:
- Date and time of booking
- Booking facility
- Booking officer
- Property inventory
- Medical screening information
Bond/Bail Information:
- Bail amount set
- Whether bail was posted
- Type of bond (cash, surety, personal recognizance)
- Conditions of release
Court Information:
- Court of jurisdiction
- Scheduled court appearances
- Case/docket numbers
- Disposition of charges (if available)
Custody Status:
- Current detention status
- Facility where detained (if applicable)
- Release date (if applicable)
Additional Information May Include:
- Prior arrest history
- Known gang affiliations
- Probation/parole status
- Protective orders
- Special custody considerations
The specific content of arrest records may vary depending on the arresting agency's policies and the circumstances of the arrest. These records are maintained in accordance with Massachusetts state record-keeping requirements and local agency protocols.
How To Look Up Arrest Records in Berkshire County in 2026
Members of the public seeking arrest records in Berkshire County may utilize several methods to obtain this information. The Commonwealth of Massachusetts provides multiple avenues for accessing criminal history information, including arrest records. Requesters should be prepared to provide specific identifying information about the subject of their search to facilitate accurate record retrieval.
To request arrest records in person:
- Visit the records division of the relevant law enforcement agency. For county-wide records, contact:
Berkshire County Sheriff's Office
467 Cheshire Road
Pittsfield, MA 01201
(413) 443-7220
Berkshire County Sheriff's Office
- Complete a public records request form, which will be provided at the agency.
- Provide identification and specify the records being requested.
- Pay any applicable fees for record retrieval and copying.
- Allow time for processing; some requests may not be fulfilled immediately.
To request arrest records by mail:
- Prepare a written request clearly stating the specific records being sought.
- Include the full name, date of birth, and any other identifying information of the subject.
- Provide contact information and preferred method of receiving records.
- Enclose a check or money order for applicable fees.
- Mail the request to the appropriate law enforcement agency.
For city-specific arrest records, contact the municipal police department where the arrest occurred. For example:
Pittsfield Police Department
39 Allen Street
Pittsfield, MA 01201
(413) 448-9700
Pittsfield Police Department
For statewide criminal history information, including arrest data, the Massachusetts Department of Criminal Justice Information Services (DCJIS) provides access through the iCORI system. This system allows authorized users to request Criminal Offender Record Information online.
Pursuant to M.G.L. c. 6, § 172, different levels of CORI access are available depending on the requester's status and purpose. Standard access is available to any member of the public for a fee, while certain organizations may qualify for enhanced access.
How To Find Berkshire County Arrest Records Online
Berkshire County residents and other interested parties may access certain arrest record information through online resources. The digital availability of these records enhances public access while maintaining compliance with Massachusetts public records laws.
The primary online resources for arrest records in Berkshire County include:
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Massachusetts iCORI System: The Department of Criminal Justice Information Services (DCJIS) maintains the iCORI portal, which provides authorized users with access to Criminal Offender Record Information. To use this system:
- Register for an iCORI account
- Pay the required fee ($25 for standard access)
- Submit the request with identifying information
- Receive results electronically
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Berkshire County Sheriff's Office Inmate Lookup: The Sheriff's Office maintains a current roster of individuals in custody, which is updated regularly. This information can be accessed through the Sheriff's Office website.
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Massachusetts Trial Court Electronic Case Access: The Massachusetts Trial Court provides online access to certain court records through its public portal. While this system does not provide direct access to arrest records, it contains information about criminal cases that result from arrests.
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Municipal Police Department Websites: Some local police departments in Berkshire County maintain online arrest logs or police blotters. For example, the Pittsfield Police Department provides certain public safety information through its official website.
When using online resources, requesters should note that:
- Not all arrest record information may be available online
- Records may be redacted to protect certain private information
- Fees may apply for comprehensive criminal history information
- The most current and complete information may require direct contact with the relevant agency
Online access to arrest records is governed by the same laws and regulations that apply to physical records, including M.G.L. c. 66, § 10 and the CORI law.
How To Search Berkshire County Arrest Records for Free?
Members of the public seeking no-cost access to arrest records in Berkshire County have several options available, though free access may provide more limited information than paid services. The following methods allow for free searches of arrest information:
- Police Department Daily Logs: Massachusetts law requires police departments to maintain daily logs of arrests, which are public records. These logs can be inspected at no cost at local police stations during regular business hours. Key departments include:
North Adams Police Department
11 Summer Street
North Adams, MA 01247
(413) 664-4944
North Adams Police Department
Great Barrington Police Department
465 Main Street
Great Barrington, MA 01230
(413) 528-0306
Great Barrington Police Department
- Court Docket Information: The public may visit the Berkshire County courthouses to view criminal dockets, which contain information about arrests that have led to criminal charges:
Berkshire County Superior Court
76 East Street
Pittsfield, MA 01201
(413) 442-9190
Massachusetts Trial Court
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Public Library Resources: Local libraries in Berkshire County often provide free access to public computers where residents can access certain online resources, including newspaper archives that may contain arrest information.
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Local Newspaper Police Blotters: Many local newspapers publish police blotter information, which includes recent arrests. These publications are typically available for free viewing at public libraries.
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Berkshire County Sheriff's Office Inmate Lookup: The Sheriff's Office maintains a publicly accessible inmate roster on its website that can be searched at no cost.
When utilizing these free resources, requesters should be aware that:
- Information may be limited compared to official record requests
- Not all arrests may be included in publicly available logs
- Records may be organized chronologically rather than by individual
- Older records may require staff assistance to locate
Pursuant to M.G.L. c. 66, § 10(a), while inspection of public records is free, agencies may charge reasonable fees for copies or for extensive search time required to fulfill requests.
How To Delete Arrest Records in Berkshire County
Massachusetts law provides specific mechanisms for the sealing or expungement of arrest records under certain circumstances. It is important to understand the distinction between these two processes:
Sealing Records: When records are sealed, they are not physically destroyed but are removed from public access. Law enforcement agencies, courts, and certain authorized entities may still access sealed records under limited circumstances. Sealed records will not appear in standard background checks.
Expungement: Expungement is the complete destruction or permanent erasure of records. Once expunged, records are treated as if they never existed and cannot be accessed by anyone, including law enforcement agencies.
Under the Massachusetts Criminal Justice Reform Act of 2018, which amended M.G.L. c. 276, § 100A-100C, individuals may be eligible to seal or expunge their records under the following circumstances:
For sealing arrest records:
- Cases resulting in non-conviction (dismissal, not guilty verdict, nolle prosequi)
- May be sealed immediately upon case conclusion
- Misdemeanor convictions
- May be sealed after a 3-year waiting period
- Felony convictions
- May be sealed after a 7-year waiting period
For expungement of arrest records:
- Cases involving mistaken identity or unauthorized use of identity
- Offenses that are no longer crimes (e.g., marijuana possession under certain amounts)
- Cases where the offense occurred before age 21, subject to certain limitations
- Cases where a significant fraud was perpetrated upon the court
To initiate the process of sealing or expunging arrest records in Berkshire County:
- Obtain a copy of your CORI report through the Massachusetts DCJIS
- For sealing records:
- Complete a petition to seal form
- File the petition with the Commissioner of Probation or the court where the case was heard
- For expungement:
- Complete a petition for expungement
- File the petition with the Commissioner of Probation
- Attend any required hearings
The petition forms are available through the Massachusetts Probation Service. Legal assistance is recommended but not required for this process. The Massachusetts Trial Court also provides self-help resources for individuals seeking to seal or expunge their records.
What Happens After Arrest in Berkshire County?
Following an arrest in Berkshire County, individuals enter a structured criminal justice process governed by Massachusetts law. This process typically follows these sequential steps:
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Booking Procedure: After physical arrest, the individual is transported to a police station or detention facility where they undergo the booking process. This includes:
- Recording personal information
- Photographing and fingerprinting
- Property inventory
- Medical screening
- Criminal history check
-
Bail Determination: Within 24 hours of arrest, a bail commissioner or judge determines whether the arrestee may be released pending court proceedings. Factors considered include:
- Severity of the alleged offense
- Criminal history
- Risk of flight
- Danger to the community
- Ties to the community
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Arraignment: The first court appearance typically occurs on the next business day following arrest. At arraignment:
- Charges are formally presented
- Constitutional rights are explained
- Plea is entered (typically not guilty at this stage)
- Counsel is appointed if the defendant qualifies
- Bail may be reviewed
- Pretrial conditions may be set
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Pretrial Proceedings: Following arraignment, several pretrial events may occur:
- Discovery exchange between prosecution and defense
- Pretrial conferences to discuss case status
- Motion hearings (e.g., motions to suppress evidence)
- Plea negotiations
-
Case Disposition: Cases may be resolved through:
- Dismissal of charges
- Diversion programs (for eligible offenders)
- Plea agreements
- Trial (bench or jury)
-
Sentencing: If convicted, sentencing may include:
- Incarceration in county jail or state prison
- Probation
- Fines and fees
- Community service
- Treatment programs
- Restitution to victims
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Post-Conviction: Following conviction, individuals may:
- Serve their sentence
- Appeal the conviction or sentence
- Seek post-conviction relief
- Eventually become eligible for record sealing
Throughout this process, cases are handled by the appropriate court based on the severity of charges:
Berkshire County District Court (for misdemeanors and less serious felonies)
76 East Street
Pittsfield, MA 01201
(413) 443-8336
Massachusetts District Court
Berkshire County Superior Court (for serious felonies)
76 East Street
Pittsfield, MA 01201
(413) 442-9190
Massachusetts Superior Court
The criminal justice process in Berkshire County operates under the presumption of innocence, with the prosecution bearing the burden of proving guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
How Long Are Arrest Records Kept in Berkshire County?
Arrest records in Berkshire County are maintained according to the Massachusetts Statewide Records Retention Schedule, which is established pursuant to M.G.L. c. 66, § 8. This statute authorizes the Records Conservation Board to establish schedules determining the retention period for various government records, including those created by law enforcement agencies.
Under current retention requirements:
- Police arrest logs must be retained permanently
- Arrest reports and booking information must be maintained for a minimum of 10 years
- Fingerprint cards and photographs are typically retained for the lifetime of the individual
- Investigation reports related to arrests must be kept for a minimum of 6 years after the case is closed
Different agencies within the criminal justice system maintain separate record systems with varying retention periods:
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Law Enforcement Agencies: Police departments and the Sheriff's Office maintain arrest records according to the state retention schedule. These records are kept in both physical and electronic formats.
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Courts: The Massachusetts Trial Court maintains case records related to arrests according to the Judicial Records Retention Schedule. Misdemeanor case records are typically retained for 10 years after case closure, while felony records are kept for 20 years or longer.
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Criminal History Systems Board: The state's central repository for criminal history information maintains records indefinitely unless they are sealed or expunged through legal processes.
The retention of arrest records serves several important public purposes:
- Preserves evidence that may be needed for future legal proceedings
- Supports law enforcement investigations of related crimes
- Provides accountability for law enforcement actions
- Enables accurate background checks for public safety purposes
- Maintains historical documentation of law enforcement activities
It is important to note that even after physical records may have been destroyed pursuant to retention schedules, information about arrests may still exist in electronic databases, court indices, or other government systems. The only way to completely remove arrest information from all public records is through the formal expungement process described in M.G.L. c. 276, § 100E-100U.
How to Find Mugshots in Berkshire County
Mugshots, also known as booking photographs, are created during the arrest booking process and are considered part of the official arrest record in Berkshire County. These photographs serve to document the physical appearance of arrested individuals at the time they enter custody.
What Mugshots Are
Mugshots typically consist of two images: a front-facing (portrait) photograph and a profile (side) view of the arrested individual. These photographs are taken in a standardized format against a plain background, often with a height chart visible. Mugshots are created primarily for identification purposes within the criminal justice system.
Where Mugshots Are Maintained
In Berkshire County, mugshots are maintained by:
- The arresting law enforcement agency (city or town police departments)
- The Berkshire County Sheriff's Office (for individuals booked into county custody)
- The Massachusetts State Police (for arrests made by state troopers)
These photographs are stored in both physical and digital formats as part of the official arrest record.
Finding Mugshots
Members of the public seeking access to mugshots in Berkshire County may:
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Submit a public records request to the law enforcement agency that made the arrest. Requests should include:
- The full name of the arrested individual
- Date of birth (if known)
- Approximate date of arrest
- Any other identifying information
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Contact the Berkshire County Sheriff's Office for mugshots of individuals who have been booked into county custody:
Berkshire County Sheriff's Office
467 Cheshire Road
Pittsfield, MA 01201
(413) 443-7220
Berkshire County Sheriff's Office
Can Mugshots Be Found Online
Unlike some jurisdictions, Berkshire County law enforcement agencies do not typically publish mugshots online as a matter of routine practice. However, mugshots may appear online through:
- Media coverage of arrests
- Third-party websites that aggregate mugshots from various sources
- Court records that have been digitized
Obtaining Mugshots Officially
To officially obtain a mugshot, individuals should:
- Submit a written public records request citing M.G.L. c. 66, § 10
- Be prepared to pay reasonable reproduction fees
- Allow 10 business days for a response (the standard timeframe under Massachusetts public records law)
Restrictions on Mugshot Access
Access to mugshots may be restricted under certain circumstances:
- If release would constitute an unwarranted invasion of personal privacy
- If the subject is a juvenile
- If the photograph is part of an ongoing investigation
- If the record has been sealed or expunged by court order
Law enforcement agencies must balance the public's right to access government records with privacy considerations and the presumption of innocence when determining whether to release mugshots.