Solano County Arrest Records
Are Arrest Records Public in Solano County
Arrest records in Solano County are considered public information under the California Public Records Act (CPRA), codified in Government Code § 6250-6270. This legislation establishes that public records, including those documenting arrests, are generally accessible to any person upon request. The fundamental principle underlying this statute is that access to information concerning governmental affairs is a fundamental right of every person in California.
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 on suspicion of criminal activity, while a conviction record indicates that the individual was found guilty of a crime through the judicial process. Pursuant to Penal Code § 13300, arrest records without subsequent convictions may have limited public accessibility after certain time periods.
The California Department of Justice maintains specific policies regarding the dissemination of criminal history information. While basic arrest information is public, comprehensive criminal history records (commonly called "rap sheets") are not publicly available and are subject to strict confidentiality requirements under Penal Code § 11105.
In Solano County, the following agencies maintain arrest records:
Solano County Sheriff's Office
530 Union Avenue, Suite 100
Fairfield, CA 94533
(707) 784-7000
Solano County Sheriff's Office
Solano County Superior Court
Hall of Justice
600 Union Avenue
Fairfield, CA 94533
(707) 207-7300
Solano County Superior Court
What's in Solano County Arrest Records
Arrest records in Solano County contain comprehensive information about individuals who have been taken into custody by law enforcement agencies. These records typically include the following categories of information:
Arrestee Identifying Information:
- Full legal name (including aliases or known nicknames)
- Date of birth
- Physical description (height, weight, eye color, hair color)
- Gender
- Race/ethnicity
- Residential address
- Identifying marks (tattoos, scars, or other distinguishing features)
- Fingerprints
- Photograph (mugshot)
Arrest Details:
- Date and time of arrest
- Location of arrest
- Arresting agency
- Name and badge number of arresting officer(s)
- Circumstances leading to arrest
- Use of force information (if applicable)
Charge Information:
- Criminal charges filed
- Statute numbers of alleged violations
- Classification of charges (felony, misdemeanor, infraction)
- Description of alleged criminal activity
- Victim information (with certain privacy protections)
Warrant Information (if applicable):
- Warrant number
- Issuing court
- Date of issuance
- Type of warrant (arrest, bench, search)
- Bail amount set on warrant
Booking Information:
- Booking number
- Date and time of booking
- Booking facility
- Processing officer information
Bond/Bail Information:
- Bail amount
- Bond type (cash, surety, property)
- Whether bail was posted
- Date of release on bail (if applicable)
Court Information:
- Court case number
- Scheduled court appearances
- Court location
- Assigned judge (if known)
Custody Status:
- Current detention status
- Facility of incarceration (if in custody)
- Release date (if applicable)
- Conditions of release (if applicable)
Additional Information May Include:
- Prior arrest history
- Probation or parole status
- Immigration holds
- Medical alerts
- Gang affiliation (if documented)
- Property inventory from booking
- Emergency contact information
The comprehensiveness of arrest records may vary depending on the arresting agency and the nature of the case. Certain information may be redacted or restricted from public disclosure pursuant to Government Code § 6254, which provides exemptions for privacy, ongoing investigations, and other protected categories of information.
How To Look Up Arrest Records in Solano County in 2026
Members of the public seeking arrest records in Solano County may utilize several official channels to obtain this information. The following procedures are currently in effect for accessing arrest records:
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Submit a Public Records Request to the Arresting Agency
Individuals may submit a formal request to the law enforcement agency that made the arrest. The California Public Records Act establishes that agencies must respond to requests within 10 calendar days, though complex requests may require additional time.
For arrests made by the Solano County Sheriff's Office:
Solano County Sheriff's Office Records Division
530 Union Avenue, Suite 100
Fairfield, CA 94533
(707) 784-7050
Solano County Sheriff's OfficePublic Counter Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Required information for requests includes:
- Full name of the subject
- Date of birth
- Approximate date of arrest
- Case number (if known)
- Requestor's contact information
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Check Court Records
Since arrests typically result in court proceedings, the Solano County Superior Court maintains records of criminal cases. The court's case index can be searched by name.
Solano County Superior Court
Hall of Justice
600 Union Avenue
Fairfield, CA 94533
(707) 207-7300
Solano County Superior CourtPublic Counter Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 3:00 PM
The court provides public access terminals for searching case information.
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Visit the Detention Facility
For recent arrests, information may be available directly from the detention facility:
Solano County Justice Center Detention Facility
500 Union Avenue
Fairfield, CA 94533
(707) 784-4700
Solano County Sheriff's Office Custody DivisionVisitation Hours: Vary by housing unit; check website for current schedule
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Submit a Criminal History Record Request
For official criminal history information, individuals may request their own records through the California Department of Justice using the Record Review Process. This requires fingerprinting at an approved Live Scan facility.
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Contact the District Attorney's Office
For information about charges filed following an arrest:
Solano County District Attorney's Office
675 Texas Street, Suite 4500
Fairfield, CA 94533
(707) 784-6800
Solano County District AttorneyPublic Counter Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
When requesting arrest records, requestors should be prepared to pay applicable fees for copying and certification of documents. Identification may be required when requesting records in person.
How To Find Solano County Arrest Records Online
Solano County provides several digital resources for accessing arrest records online. These electronic systems offer convenience while maintaining compliance with public records laws. The following online methods are available for locating arrest information:
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Solano County Sheriff's Office Inmate Locator
The Sheriff's Office maintains an online inmate search system that provides information about currently incarcerated individuals and those recently released:
This database includes:
- Inmate name and booking number
- Current charges
- Custody status
- Scheduled court dates
- Expected release date (when applicable)
The system is updated regularly but may experience occasional delays in reflecting the most current information.
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Solano County Superior Court Case Index
The court's online case management system allows searches for criminal cases resulting from arrests:
Solano County Court Case Index
Users can search by:
- Defendant name
- Case number
- Filing date
The system provides case summaries, hearing dates, and case disposition information.
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California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation Inmate Locator
For individuals who have been sentenced to state prison following conviction in Solano County:
California Incarcerated Records & Information Search (CIRIS)
This database includes information on current inmates and those released within the past year from state custody.
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Public Records Request Portal
Solano County agencies accept online public records requests through their respective websites:
Solano County Public Records Center
Requests submitted through this portal are processed according to California Public Records Act requirements, with responses typically provided within 10 calendar days.
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Law Enforcement Agency Websites
Individual police departments within Solano County may maintain their own arrest logs or daily bulletins online:
When using online systems to access arrest records, users should note that these resources may not contain complete arrest histories. For comprehensive criminal history information, official requests through appropriate channels are necessary.
How To Search Solano County Arrest Records for Free?
Members of the public have several options for accessing Solano County arrest records without incurring fees. The following methods provide cost-free access to arrest information:
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Online Inmate Lookup Services
The Solano County Sheriff's Office provides a free online inmate search tool that allows the public to verify if someone is currently in custody or has been recently released:
This service requires no registration or payment and provides basic information including:
- Current custody status
- Charges
- Next court date
- Facility location
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Public Access Terminals at Government Facilities
Free public access computer terminals are available at the following locations:
Solano County Superior Court
Hall of Justice
600 Union Avenue
Fairfield, CA 94533
(707) 207-7300
Solano County Superior CourtPublic Terminal Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Solano County Law Library
Hall of Justice, 3rd Floor
600 Union Avenue
Fairfield, CA 94533
(707) 421-6520
Solano County Law LibraryLibrary Hours: Monday-Thursday, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM; Friday, 8:30 AM - 3:00 PM
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In-Person Records Inspection
Pursuant to the California Public Records Act, individuals may inspect public records during regular business hours at no cost. While copying fees may apply, viewing records is free:
Solano County Sheriff's Office Records Division
530 Union Avenue, Suite 100
Fairfield, CA 94533
(707) 784-7050
Solano County Sheriff's OfficePublic Counter Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
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Daily Arrest Logs
Law enforcement agencies in Solano County maintain daily arrest logs that are available for public inspection at no cost. These logs typically include:
- Date and time of arrest
- Name of arrestee
- Charges
- Location of arrest
These logs can be viewed at the respective police department headquarters.
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Local News Sources
Several local news outlets report on significant arrests and maintain searchable online archives:
When utilizing free resources, requestors should be aware that these sources may not provide comprehensive arrest histories. Additionally, while inspection of records is free, agencies may charge reasonable fees for copies of documents pursuant to Government Code § 6253(b).
How To Delete Arrest Records in Solano County
California law provides several mechanisms for limiting public access to arrest records under specific circumstances. These processes fall into two primary categories: record sealing (restricting public access) and expungement (legal erasure). The following options are available to eligible individuals in Solano County:
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Expungement Under Penal Code § 1203.4
Individuals who have successfully completed probation may petition for expungement under Penal Code § 1203.4. This process does not physically destroy records but releases the petitioner from "all penalties and disabilities" resulting from the conviction.
Eligibility requirements include:
- Successful completion of probation
- Not currently charged with, serving a sentence for, or on probation for another offense
- No prison time served for the conviction
The petition must be filed with the Solano County Superior Court:
Solano County Superior Court
Hall of Justice
600 Union Avenue
Fairfield, CA 94533
(707) 207-7300
Solano County Superior Court -
Sealing of Arrest Records (Factual Innocence)
Under Penal Code § 851.8, individuals who were arrested but never charged, or were charged but the case was dismissed, may petition to have their arrest records sealed and destroyed on grounds of factual innocence.
This petition must be filed:
- Within two years of the arrest date
- First with the arresting agency, then with the court if denied
The petitioner must prove that no reasonable cause exists to believe they committed the offense.
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Automatic Relief Under AB 1076
As of January 1, 2021, Assembly Bill 1076 provides for automatic relief for certain arrests and convictions without requiring a petition. The California Department of Justice automatically identifies eligible records for:
- Arrests that did not result in conviction
- Convictions that have been dismissed
- Successful completion of diversion programs
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Juvenile Record Sealing
Juvenile arrest records may be sealed under Welfare and Institutions Code § 781. Eligibility requirements include:
- Five years have passed since juvenile court jurisdiction terminated
- No subsequent felony or misdemeanor involving moral turpitude
- Rehabilitation has been attained
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Cannabis Conviction Dismissal
Under Health and Safety Code § 11361.8, individuals with certain marijuana-related convictions may petition for dismissal or reduction based on changes in California law following Proposition 64.
For assistance with record clearing processes, individuals may contact:
Solano County Public Defender's Office
675 Texas Street, Suite 3500
Fairfield, CA 94533
(707) 784-6700
Solano County Public Defender
Solano County Bar Association Lawyer Referral Service
744 Empire Street, Suite 201
Fairfield, CA 94533
(707) 422-5087
Solano County Bar Association
It is important to note that even when records are sealed or expunged, certain government agencies may still access them for limited purposes, such as law enforcement investigations or employment in sensitive positions.
What Happens After Arrest in Solano County?
Following an arrest in Solano County, individuals enter a structured criminal justice process governed by California law. This process typically progresses through the following stages:
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Booking and Initial Detention
After physical arrest, individuals are transported to a detention facility for booking, which includes:
- Recording personal information
- Photographing and fingerprinting
- Property inventory
- Medical screening
- Criminal history check
In Solano County, booking typically occurs at:
Solano County Justice Center Detention Facility
500 Union Avenue
Fairfield, CA 94533
(707) 784-4700
Solano County Sheriff's Office Custody Division -
Bail Determination
Pursuant to Penal Code § 1269b, bail may be set according to the county's bail schedule or through a bail hearing. Individuals may be:
- Released on their own recognizance
- Released after posting bail
- Detained until arraignment
- Held without bail for certain serious offenses
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Arraignment
The first court appearance typically occurs within 48 hours of arrest (excluding weekends and holidays). During arraignment:
- Charges are formally presented
- Constitutional rights are explained
- Legal representation is established
- Plea is entered (guilty, not guilty, no contest)
- Bail may be reviewed
- Future court dates are scheduled
Arraignments occur at:
Solano County Superior Court
Hall of Justice
600 Union Avenue
Fairfield, CA 94533
(707) 207-7300
Solano County Superior Court -
Preliminary Hearing (Felony Cases)
For felony charges, a preliminary hearing is held within 10 court days of arraignment unless waived. The prosecution must demonstrate sufficient evidence to establish "probable cause" that the defendant committed the crime.
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Pretrial Proceedings
This phase may include:
- Discovery (exchange of evidence)
- Motion hearings
- Plea negotiations
- Pretrial conferences
- Diversion program placement (if eligible)
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Trial
If the case proceeds to trial, defendants have the right to:
- Jury trial (or bench trial if jury is waived)
- Confront and cross-examine witnesses
- Present evidence
- Testify or remain silent
The prosecution must prove guilt "beyond a reasonable doubt."
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Sentencing
Following conviction (by plea or verdict), sentencing may include:
- Probation
- Fines and restitution
- Community service
- Jail or prison time
- Treatment programs
Sentencing guidelines are established by the California Penal Code and may consider factors such as criminal history and case circumstances.
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Post-Conviction
After sentencing, individuals may:
- Serve their sentence
- Appeal the conviction or sentence
- Petition for modification of sentence
- Apply for expungement after completing sentence
Throughout this process, individuals are represented by either private counsel or the Solano County Public Defender:
Solano County Public Defender's Office
675 Texas Street, Suite 3500
Fairfield, CA 94533
(707) 784-6700
Solano County Public Defender
The prosecution is conducted by:
Solano County District Attorney's Office
675 Texas Street, Suite 4500
Fairfield, CA 94533
(707) 784-6800
Solano County District Attorney
How Long Are Arrest Records Kept in Solano County?
Arrest records in Solano County are subject to retention requirements established by California state law and local records management policies. The duration for which these records are maintained varies based on several factors:
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Law Enforcement Agency Records
Under Government Code § 34090, local agencies must generally retain records for at least two years. However, law enforcement records typically have longer retention periods:
- Arrest reports for misdemeanors: Minimum 5 years
- Arrest reports for felonies: Minimum 10 years
- Arrest reports for homicides and sexual assaults: Permanent retention
- Booking photographs and fingerprints: Minimum 5 years after final disposition
The Solano County Sheriff's Office follows the Law Enforcement Records Management Guidelines established by the California Secretary of State.
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Court Records
The California Rules of Court (Rule 10.850) establishes retention schedules for court records:
- Records of felony cases: 75 years
- Records of misdemeanor cases: 5 years after final disposition
- Records of infractions: 3 years after final disposition
- Capital felony cases: Permanent retention
The Solano County Superior Court maintains records according to these guidelines.
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Criminal History Repository
The California Department of Justice maintains the state's central repository of criminal history information pursuant to Penal Code § 11105. These records are maintained indefinitely unless specifically ordered sealed or expunged by court order.
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Detention Facility Records
Jail booking and custody records are typically retained for:
- Booking logs: Minimum 5 years
- Inmate files: Minimum 5 years after release
- Medical records: Minimum 7 years after release
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Prosecutor Records
The Solano County District Attorney's Office maintains case files according to the following general guidelines:
- Misdemeanor cases: 3 years after final disposition
- Felony cases: 10 years after final disposition
- Serious violent felonies: 25 years after final disposition
- Homicide cases: Permanent retention
Different agencies maintain separate record systems with varying retention requirements. This approach preserves evidence for potential future legal proceedings, maintains accountability in the criminal justice system, and provides historical documentation of law enforcement activities.
For specific information about record retention for a particular case, individuals may contact:
Solano County Sheriff's Office Records Division
530 Union Avenue, Suite 100
Fairfield, CA 94533
(707) 784-7050
Solano County Sheriff's Office
How to Find Mugshots in Solano County
Mugshots, officially known as booking photographs, are created during the arrest booking process and are maintained as part of law enforcement records in Solano County. The following information outlines what mugshots are and how they may be accessed:
What Mugshots Are
Booking photographs (mugshots) are official photographs taken by law enforcement during the booking process following an arrest. These images typically include:
- Front-facing (portrait) view of the arrestee
- Profile (side) view of the arrestee
- Identifying information board or number
- Date of booking
These photographs serve as visual identification records within the criminal justice system.
Where Mugshots Are Maintained
In Solano County, booking photographs are primarily maintained by:
- The arresting law enforcement agency
- The Solano County Sheriff's Office (for individuals booked into county jail)
- The California Department of Justice (as part of state criminal history records)
Finding Mugshots
Members of the public seeking access to booking photographs have several potential avenues:
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Public Records Requests
Formal requests may be submitted to the law enforcement agency that conducted the booking:
Solano County Sheriff's Office Records Division
530 Union Avenue, Suite 100
Fairfield, CA 94533
(707) 784-7050
Solano County Sheriff's OfficeRequests should include:
- Full name of the subject
- Date of birth (if known)
- Approximate date of arrest
- Case number (if known)
- Requestor's contact information
Agencies may charge reasonable fees for reproduction of photographs.
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Court Records
In some cases, booking photographs may be included in court files if submitted as evidence:
Solano County Superior Court
Hall of Justice
600 Union Avenue
Fairfield, CA 94533
(707) 207-7300
Solano County Superior Court
Can Mugshots Be Found Online?
Unlike some jurisdictions, Solano County law enforcement agencies do not currently maintain public-facing online databases of booking photographs. However, mugshots may appear online through:
- Law enforcement press releases for significant cases
- Media coverage of arrests
- Third-party websites that aggregate mugshots from various sources
It should be noted that California has enacted legislation (Assembly Bill 1475) restricting the publication of booking photographs by law enforcement agencies on social media platforms for certain types of arrests.
Obtaining Mugshots Officially
The most reliable method for obtaining an official booking photograph is through a formal public records request to the appropriate agency. Individuals may request their own booking photographs through the criminal record review process administered by the California Department of Justice.
Restrictions on Mugshot Access
Access to booking photographs may be restricted under certain circumstances:
- Juvenile arrest records (including photographs) are generally confidential under Welfare and Institutions Code § 827
- Records that have been sealed or expunged by court order
- Photographs that would compromise an ongoing investigation
- Cases involving certain protected categories of victims
Law enforcement agencies evaluate requests for booking photographs on a case-by-case basis in accordance with applicable public records laws and privacy considerations.
Lookup Arrest Records in Solano County
Public Records from the California Department of Justice
California Incarcerated Records & Information Search
Criminal Records Review Process
Public Records Act Requests through the California Secretary of State