Pubic Records

We read about and hear about crimes in alarmingly increasing numbers each week. Millions of Americans have been charged with criminal violations that lead to a criminal record. Results vary after legal proceedings, from incarceration to rehabilitation, probation and parole. Society as a whole has targeted crime as a problem, yet prevention and rehabilitative services have had little impact on the crime rates.

Searching for Criminal Histories

Crime is categorized into three main domains: Traffic, Misdemeanor and Felony charges.  The least, albeit legally serious, of these is Traffic violations. Failing to stop at a stop sign when no other cars are present or illegal parking that does not infringe on others’ rights, seems pretty benign. However, traffic violations also include actions resulting in injury or property damage. Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs also falls under the category of Traffic Violation. Generally, none of the traffic violations appear on criminal records, however.

Misdemeanors are offenses that end in shorter sentences for incarceration or supervision such as probation. Misdemeanors rarely require jail time of more than one year. Any jail time, however does appear on an individuals’ record.  Felony convictions are the most severe of all offenses and can include sentences up to life in prison and the death penalty. Felonies show up on criminal records, and are reported on crime alerts and other notices, once entered into the system.

Criminal histories are matters of public record. They can be accessed free of charge, and are categorized according to offenses. For example, Theft, Assault, Inmate, Sex Offender and Driving are some of the headings. Criminal records are routine parts of background checks and investigations. More and more, employers are conducting screenings through finger printing. With information so readily available, an individual's criminal record may be viewed for neighborhood surveillance, social background checks or police work.
 
There are various methods and procedures for checking an individual’s criminal history.  Police stations of course are linked to the CBC, as are public offices. US Postal Service can be used, as can email. Perhaps the most widely used background check is the internet. In this age of instant information, internet is the most convenient and quickest method by far.

 Criminal Records Search

The internet is convenient and quick, but another advantage is the privacy afforded. Not everyone interested in checking someone’s criminal history, necessarily wants that person to know they are being checked. Therefore, with speed and availability of information, the internet is used more and more.

There are numerous sources online to use in checking individual's criminal records. It is best to use a trusted site, and to check reviews for their services before entering an agreement. Some sites are free,however, it is more difficult to confirm their accuracy. Depending on the immediacy and importance of your background check, sites that are well known and charge a fee, will most likely be the best choice. If you believe you will need to make a decision or take action on your findings, it is well worth confirming that your information came from a reliable, reputable site.