Lehigh County Criminal Records

What Is Lehigh County Criminal Records

Criminal records in Lehigh County encompass official documentation of an individual's interactions with the criminal justice system within the county's jurisdiction. These records are maintained pursuant to Pennsylvania's Criminal History Record Information Act (CHRIA), which establishes guidelines for the collection, maintenance, and dissemination of criminal history information.

Criminal records in Lehigh County include several distinct categories:

• Arrest Records: Documentation of apprehensions by law enforcement agencies, including the Lehigh County Sheriff's Office and municipal police departments such as the Allentown Police Department
• Court Records: Documentation of criminal proceedings in the Lehigh County Court of Common Pleas and Magisterial District Courts
• Correctional Records: Information regarding incarceration in the Lehigh County Jail or state correctional facilities
• Criminal History Reports: Comprehensive summaries of an individual's criminal background

The distinction between arrest and conviction records is significant. Arrest records document instances where individuals were taken into custody but do not necessarily indicate guilt. Conviction records, conversely, confirm that a defendant was found guilty of specific charges through trial or plea agreement.

Criminal offenses in Lehigh County are categorized as follows:

• Felonies: Serious crimes punishable by imprisonment exceeding one year
• Misdemeanors: Less severe offenses typically punishable by less than one year of incarceration
• Summary Offenses: Minor infractions usually punishable by fines

Adult criminal records (individuals 18 and older) are generally accessible to the public, while juvenile records (under 18) are sealed pursuant to 42 Pa.C.S. § 6308, except under specific circumstances.

The primary agencies maintaining criminal records in Lehigh County include:

Lehigh County Clerk of Judicial Records
Lehigh County Courthouse
455 W. Hamilton Street
Allentown, PA 18101
610-782-3000
Lehigh County Clerk of Judicial Records

Lehigh County Sheriff's Office
Lehigh County Courthouse
455 W. Hamilton Street, Room 124
Allentown, PA 18101
610-782-3175
Lehigh County Sheriff's Office

Pennsylvania State Police
Central Repository
1800 Elmerton Avenue
Harrisburg, PA 17110
717-783-5494
Pennsylvania State Police

Are Criminal Records Public In Lehigh County

Criminal records in Lehigh County are generally considered public information under the Pennsylvania Right-to-Know Law (RTKL), which establishes the presumption that government records are accessible to the public. However, this accessibility is subject to specific limitations and exceptions outlined in both state and federal statutes.

According to 65 P.S. § 67.301, "A Commonwealth agency shall provide public records in accordance with this act." This provision establishes the fundamental right of public access to government records, including criminal records maintained by Lehigh County agencies.

The following categories of criminal records are typically available to the public:

• Court dockets and case files for adult criminal proceedings
• Criminal court calendars and schedules
• Final judgments and sentencing information
• Booking photographs ("mugshots") from county jail facilities
• Basic inmate information for individuals currently incarcerated

However, certain criminal records are restricted from public access, including:

• Records pertaining to active criminal investigations, as specified in 65 P.S. § 67.708(b)(16)
• Juvenile records, which are confidential under 42 Pa.C.S. § 6308, except in limited circumstances
• Records that have been sealed or expunged by court order
• Information that would compromise personal privacy or security if disclosed
• Records containing confidential informant information

The Unified Judicial System of Pennsylvania provides public access to court case information through the UJS Web Portal, which includes criminal cases filed in Lehigh County courts. This online resource allows members of the public to search for criminal cases by name, case number, or other identifiers.

It is important to note that while criminal records are generally public, the use of such information is regulated by state and federal laws. The Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) and Pennsylvania's Criminal History Record Information Act place restrictions on how criminal record information can be used, particularly in employment and housing decisions.

How To Look Up Criminal Records In Lehigh County in 2026

Members of the public seeking criminal records in Lehigh County may utilize several methods to obtain this information. The county maintains multiple access points for criminal record searches, each providing different types of information.

To conduct a comprehensive criminal record search in Lehigh County, individuals may follow these steps:

1. Search the Unified Judicial System Web Portal

   • Access the Pennsylvania Unified Judicial System Web Portal
   • Select "Public Web Docket Sheets"
   • Choose "Criminal Court Case Information"
   • Enter search criteria (name, case number, etc.)
   • Review results for cases filed in Lehigh County courts

2. Visit the Lehigh County Clerk of Judicial Records

   Lehigh County Clerk of Judicial Records
   Lehigh County Courthouse
   455 W. Hamilton Street
   Allentown, PA 18101
   610-782-3000
   Lehigh County Clerk of Judicial Records

   Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM

   • Complete a records request form
   • Provide specific information about the case or individual
   • Pay applicable fees for copies or certified records
   • Allow processing time for record retrieval

3. Request Criminal History Information from Pennsylvania State Police

   • Submit a Criminal History Request Form (SP4-164)
   • Include required identification information
   • Pay the statutory fee ($22 per request)
   • Submit via mail or online through the Pennsylvania Access to Criminal History (PATCH) system

4. Check the Lehigh County Inmate Locator

   • Visit the Pennsylvania Department of Corrections Inmate Locator
   • Enter the individual's name or inmate number
   • Review current incarceration status and location

5. Contact Local Law Enforcement Agencies

   • Submit requests to relevant police departments for arrest records
   • Provide specific information about the incident or individual
   • Follow agency-specific procedures for record requests

For certified copies of criminal records, requestors must submit proper identification and may need to pay additional fees. Pursuant to 18 Pa.C.S. § 9121, criminal history record information shall be disseminated by a state or local police department to any individual or non-criminal justice agency only upon request.

Requestors should note that processing times vary depending on the complexity of the search and the volume of requests being processed. Some records may require court orders for access, particularly if they involve sealed or expunged cases.

How To Find Criminal Records in Lehigh County Online?

Lehigh County offers several online resources for accessing criminal records electronically. These digital platforms provide convenient alternatives to in-person visits and are available to the public under current Pennsylvania public records laws.

The primary online resources for criminal records in Lehigh County include:

1. Pennsylvania Unified Judicial System Web Portal

   • Access the UJS Web Portal
   • Navigate to "Public Web Docket Sheets"
   • Select "Criminal Court Case Information"
   • Search by name, case number, or other identifiers
   • View docket sheets containing case information, charges, court dates, and dispositions
   • No registration required for basic searches
   • Contains records from the Lehigh County Court of Common Pleas and Magisterial District Courts

2. Pennsylvania Access to Criminal History (PATCH)

   • Visit the PATCH website
   • Create an account or proceed as a public user
   • Enter required information about the subject
   • Pay the statutory fee ($22 per search)
   • Receive instant results for many searches
   • Provides official criminal history information from the Pennsylvania State Police

3. Pennsylvania Department of Corrections Inmate Locator

   • Access the Inmate/Department Supervised Individual Locator
   • Enter the individual's name or inmate number
   • View current incarceration status, location, and basic case information
   • No registration or fees required
   • Limited to currently incarcerated individuals or those under supervision

4. Lehigh County Jail Inmate Search

   • Visit the Lehigh County Jail Inmate Search
   • Enter the individual's name
   • View current inmates in the Lehigh County Jail
   • No registration or fees required
   • Information limited to current inmates only

5. Municipal Police Department Websites

   • Some local police departments, such as the Salisbury Township Police Department, provide online access to police blotters or recent arrest information
   • Information varies by municipality
   • Typically limited to recent incidents

When using these online resources, users should note the following limitations:

• Not all criminal records are available online
• Older records may only be accessible through in-person requests
• Some detailed case documents require in-person retrieval
• Juvenile records are generally not available online
• Sealed or expunged records will not appear in public searches

For comprehensive criminal background checks, the Pennsylvania State Police PATCH system provides the most authoritative information. However, for specific case details, the UJS Web Portal offers the most comprehensive court record information for Lehigh County criminal cases.

Can You Search Lehigh County Criminal Records for Free?

Lehigh County residents and members of the public have several options for accessing criminal records without charge, though certain limitations apply. Pennsylvania law, specifically 65 P.S. § 67.1307, permits agencies to charge reasonable fees for duplication of records but generally allows free inspection of public records.

The following free resources are available for criminal record searches in Lehigh County:

1. In-Person Inspection at the Courthouse

   • Visit the Lehigh County Clerk of Judicial Records office during business hours
   • Request to view publicly available criminal case files
   • No charge for inspection of records
   • Fees apply only for copies or certified documents

   Lehigh County Clerk of Judicial Records
   Lehigh County Courthouse
   455 W. Hamilton Street
   Allentown, PA 18101
   610-782-3000
   Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM

2. Pennsylvania Unified Judicial System Web Portal

   • Access the UJS Web Portal from any internet-connected device
   • Search criminal dockets at no charge
   • View basic case information, charges, and disposition
   • No registration required for basic searches
   • Contains records from all Lehigh County courts

3. Pennsylvania Department of Corrections Inmate Locator

   • Use the Inmate/Department Supervised Individual Locator at no cost
   • Search for currently incarcerated individuals
   • View basic information about inmates and their sentences
   • No registration required

4. Lehigh County Jail Inmate Search

   • Access the county's online inmate search tool free of charge
   • View current inmates in the Lehigh County Jail
   • Information limited to individuals currently in custody

5. Public Access Terminals at the Courthouse

   • Use computer terminals in the Clerk's office
   • Search court records more extensively than online
   • No charge for using the terminals
   • Printing fees may apply

While these resources provide free access to basic criminal record information, certain limitations apply:

• Comprehensive criminal history reports from the Pennsylvania State Police require payment of the statutory fee ($22)
• Certified copies of court documents incur fees (typically $5-$25 depending on document type)
• Background checks for employment or licensing purposes generally require paid searches
• Some detailed case documents may only be available for a fee

For individuals seeking the most comprehensive free access, in-person inspection at the courthouse provides the greatest level of detail without cost. However, for convenience, the online resources offer significant information without charge and are accessible 24 hours a day.

What's Included in a Lehigh County Criminal Record?

Criminal records in Lehigh County contain comprehensive information about an individual's interactions with the criminal justice system. These records typically include several categories of information, structured to provide a complete overview of criminal history.

Identifying Information:

• Full legal name and known aliases
• Date of birth and age
• Physical description (height, weight, eye color, hair color)
• Identifying marks such as tattoos or scars
• Current and previous addresses
• State Identification Number (SID)
• FBI number (if applicable)
• Photograph ("mugshot") from booking

Arrest Information:

• Date, time, and location of arrest
• Arresting agency (e.g., Allentown Police Department or Lehigh County Sheriff's Office)
• Booking number and processing details
• Initial charges filed by law enforcement
• Bail or bond information
• Detention facility information

Court Case Information:

• Court docket number
• Court of jurisdiction (Magisterial District Court or Court of Common Pleas)
• Filing date and case initiation information
• Formal charges filed by the District Attorney
• Statutory citations and offense grading (felony, misdemeanor, summary)
• Attorney information (defense counsel and prosecutor)
• Preliminary hearing details
• Pre-trial motions and rulings
• Trial information or plea details

Case Disposition:

• Verdict (guilty, not guilty, dismissed, etc.)
• Conviction date (if applicable)
• Sentencing information:
  • Incarceration terms and facility
  • Probation or parole conditions
  • Fines, costs, and restitution ordered
  • Community service requirements
  • Treatment program mandates
• Post-conviction relief filings
• Appeal information

Additional Information:

• Active warrants (if applicable)
• Protection from Abuse (PFA) orders
• Sex offender registration status
• Specialized court participation (Drug Court, Veterans Court, etc.)
• Probation/parole violations
• Detainers or holds from other jurisdictions

Criminal records in Lehigh County are maintained in accordance with 18 Pa.C.S. § 9111, which establishes requirements for the completeness and accuracy of criminal history record information. The statute mandates that records contain complete information about the disposition of each charge and requires regular auditing to ensure accuracy.

For individuals with criminal records in multiple Pennsylvania counties, the Pennsylvania State Police Central Repository maintains a comprehensive statewide criminal history that consolidates information from all counties, including Lehigh. This centralized record provides the most complete picture of an individual's criminal history throughout the Commonwealth.

How Long Does Lehigh County Keep Criminal Records?

Lehigh County maintains criminal records according to retention schedules established by the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission's Bureau of Archives and History, as mandated by PA Code Title 37, Chapter 219. These schedules determine how long different types of criminal records must be preserved before they may be destroyed or archived.

The retention periods for various criminal records in Lehigh County are as follows:

• Arrest Records and Police Reports

  • Felony cases: Permanent retention
  • Misdemeanor cases: 20 years after case closure
  • Summary offenses: 3 years after case closure
  • Non-prosecuted cases: 3 years from date of arrest

• Criminal Court Records

  • Felony case files: Permanent retention
  • Misdemeanor case files: 20 years after final disposition
  • Summary offense case files: 7 years after final disposition
  • Court dockets and indices: Permanent retention
  • Sentencing orders: Permanent retention

• Correctional Records

  • Inmate files: 10 years after release from incarceration
  • Booking records: 7 years after release
  • Visitor logs: 3 years

• Probation and Parole Records

  • Felony supervision files: 10 years after termination of supervision
  • Misdemeanor supervision files: 5 years after termination of supervision

It is important to note that while physical records may be destroyed according to these retention schedules, electronic records and indices often remain accessible for longer periods. Additionally, certain high-profile or historically significant cases may be preserved permanently regardless of the standard retention period.

Criminal records that have been expunged pursuant to court order under 18 Pa.C.S. § 9122 are removed from public access and destroyed or sealed according to the terms of the expungement order. Similarly, records that have been sealed under Pennsylvania's Clean Slate law are not destroyed but are removed from public view.

The Pennsylvania State Police maintain criminal history information in the Central Repository indefinitely unless expungement is ordered by a court. This centralized database serves as the official state repository for criminal records and provides a comprehensive history even when local records may have been destroyed according to retention schedules.

For historical criminal records that exceed retention periods, researchers may need to consult the Lehigh County Historical Society or the Pennsylvania State Archives, which may preserve court records of historical significance.

Lookup Criminal Records in Lehigh County

Lehigh County Sheriff's Office

Allentown Police Department

Pennsylvania Inmate Locator

Salisbury Township Police Department

Pennsylvania Inmate and Parolee Locator