Accomack County Arrest Records

Accomack County arrest records are maintained by the Sheriff's Office in Accomac, Virginia, and can be searched through state court databases, in-person visits, or formal written requests. Located on Virginia's Eastern Shore, Accomack County uses the same statewide public records framework as the rest of the Commonwealth, meaning you can look up criminal cases through the Virginia Courts Case Information System at no charge, or request official criminal history records through the Virginia State Police. This guide explains how to find arrest records for Accomack County, what documents are available, and where to send your request.

Accomack County Sheriff's Office

The Accomack County Sheriff's Office is the primary law enforcement agency on the Eastern Shore and serves as the first point of contact for arrest record requests. The Sheriff's Office maintains booking records, incident reports, and jail records for individuals detained at the county detention facility. Staff can help you locate a specific arrest record or point you to the right agency for criminal history information.

You can submit records requests in person or by mail. When asking for a specific arrest record, include as much detail as you can: the full name of the person, the approximate date of the arrest, and any case number you have. The office processes records requests during normal business hours. Some records may require a written request under the Virginia Freedom of Information Act, and fees may apply for copies.

The Sheriff's Office also provides local criminal history checks for county residents. For a comprehensive, statewide criminal history record, you will need to go through the Virginia State Police CARE system, which searches all agencies statewide. The Sheriff's Office can assist with that process or direct you to the proper forms.

How to Search Accomack County Arrest Records

There are several ways to search for arrest records in Accomack County. The free option is the Virginia Courts Case Information System at vacourts.gov. This tool lets you search by name or case number across both Circuit Court and General District Court records. It shows charge details, hearing dates, and case dispositions. You do not need to create an account or pay any fee to use it.

For more detailed or official criminal history records, the Virginia State Police runs the Civil and Applicant Records Exchange (CARE) system. Individuals use form SP-167 to request their own records or those of another person with proper notarized authorization. The fee is $15 for a standard criminal history record check. You mail the completed form with payment to the VSP office in Richmond. Processing takes about 15 business days. You can find the forms and full instructions at vsp.virginia.gov.

If you are looking for someone currently in custody, the VADOC Offender Locator covers state prison inmates. For someone held at the local jail, contact the Accomack County Sheriff's Office directly.

In-person searches at the court clerk's office are also an option. You can visit the Accomack County Circuit Court or General District Court and ask staff to pull records. Public access terminals are usually available during business hours. Bring photo ID and any identifying information you have about the case.

The VSP CARE system is the official source for certified criminal history records in Virginia. The Virginia Courts Case Information System is best for looking up court case details without needing a certified copy.

Accomack County Court Records

Accomack County has both a Circuit Court and a General District Court. These courts handle different types of criminal cases, and both maintain public records that can be searched online or in person.

The Circuit Court handles felony criminal cases, including trials and sentencing. It also handles appeals from the General District Court. If someone was charged with a felony in Accomack County, that case record will be at the Circuit Court. Court records from the Circuit Court can be accessed through the Virginia Courts Case Information System or by visiting the clerk's office. The clerk can provide certified copies of court orders and judgments for a fee per page.

The General District Court handles misdemeanor criminal cases, traffic violations, and preliminary hearings on felony charges. This court sees a higher volume of cases day to day. You can search General District Court records by name or case number through the same online system. Both courts are located in Accomac, the county seat. The Virginia Judiciary's case search tool covers both court levels statewide. Under Virginia law, under § 19.2-389, criminal history record information is maintained at the state level through the Central Criminal Records Exchange operated by the Virginia State Police.

FOIA and Public Access in Accomack County

Virginia's Freedom of Information Act, found at § 2.2-3704 of the Code of Virginia, gives citizens the right to request government records including arrest records. The law presumes all public records are open unless a specific exemption applies. Accomack County Sheriff's Office and court clerks must respond to your FOIA request within five working days.

To request records under FOIA, submit a written request to the records custodian. You do not need to say why you want the records. Just describe them with enough detail for the agency to find them. Include the name of the person, approximate dates, and the type of record you want. The agency can charge reasonable fees for staff time and copies but cannot impose extra charges beyond actual cost. If your request is expected to cost more than $200, the agency may ask for a deposit first.

Arrest identities and charges are public under Virginia law. The law states that the identity of arrested persons, the charges against them, and the status of those charges must be released. Active criminal investigations are exempt, and juvenile records are confidential. If you need help with the FOIA process, the FOIA Advisory Council can answer questions by phone at (804) 698-1810 or by email at foiacouncil@dls.virginia.gov.

Expungement of Accomack County Arrest Records

Virginia law allows certain arrest records to be expunged, which means they are sealed from public access. Under § 19.2-392.2, you may petition for expungement if you were acquitted of charges, if the charge was dismissed or nolle prosequi, or if you were arrested but never charged and the record is inaccurate or misleading. People who received an absolute pardon after a conviction may also qualify.

Expungement in Virginia generally does not apply to convictions. If you were found guilty, you usually cannot have that conviction expunged. This makes Virginia more restrictive than many other states. However, starting in July 2025, certain misdemeanor and felony convictions may qualify for automatic sealing under new state laws after applicable waiting periods pass.

To file for expungement in Accomack County, you petition the Circuit Court in Accomac. You must include details about the arrest and the legal grounds for your petition. You will also need to submit fingerprints through the Virginia State Police to verify your identity. The Commonwealth's Attorney receives a copy and can oppose the petition. If there is opposition, the court will hold a hearing. Filing fees apply at the Circuit Court clerk's office. The Virginia General Assembly's Code search tool lets you read the full text of the expungement statute and related laws.

Cities Near Accomack County

Accomack County is located on the Eastern Shore of Virginia. There are no independent cities within Accomack County that qualify under Virginia law, but the county is part of the broader Eastern Shore region. All criminal cases from this area go through the Accomack County court system in Accomac.

Nearby Counties

Accomack County sits at the northern end of the Eastern Shore. The county to the south is Northampton County. Across the Chesapeake Bay are several Virginia counties. Check which county you need based on where the arrest or incident occurred.