Arrest records in Torrington, Wyoming are considered public information pursuant to the Wyoming Public Records Act (W.S. § 16-4-201 through 16-4-205). This legislation establishes the framework for public access to governmental records, including those pertaining to arrests made within the jurisdiction. The Act operates under the presumption that all government records are open to inspection unless specifically exempted by statute.
Members of the public may access arrest records maintained by the Torrington Police Department and the Goshen County Sheriff's Office. These records serve multiple public interests, including:
The Wyoming Supreme Court has consistently upheld the public's right to access arrest records, noting in several decisions that such transparency serves as a check on governmental power and promotes accountability within the criminal justice system. However, certain information within arrest records may be redacted to protect ongoing investigations or sensitive personal information as provided under W.S. § 16-4-203.
The retrieval of arrest records in Torrington involves several established procedures that comply with Wyoming state law. Individuals seeking such information may utilize the following methods:
In-Person Requests at Law Enforcement Agencies: Requestors may visit the Torrington Police Department located at 436 E 22nd Avenue, Torrington, WY 82240. Office hours are Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The department maintains records of arrests conducted within city limits and can provide copies upon proper request.
Goshen County Sheriff's Office: For arrests made in unincorporated areas of Goshen County or through county-wide operations, individuals may contact:
Goshen County Sheriff's Office
2120 East B Street
Torrington, WY 82240
Phone: (307) 532-4026
Goshen County Sheriff's Office
Online Access Systems: The Torrington Police Department's Crime Data portal provides limited information about recent arrests and incidents. This resource includes basic details about arrests but may not contain comprehensive record information.
Written Requests: Pursuant to W.S. § 16-4-204, citizens may submit written requests for arrest records. These requests should include:
Written requests should be addressed to the Records Division of either the Torrington Police Department or Goshen County Sheriff's Office, depending on the arresting agency.
Municipal Court Records: The Torrington Municipal Court maintains records of cases resulting from arrests for violations of municipal ordinances. The court is located at 436 E 22nd Avenue, Torrington, WY 82240, and can be reached at (307) 532-3966.
Arrest records maintained by Torrington law enforcement agencies typically contain standardized information as prescribed by Wyoming state regulations and local protocols. These records generally include the following components:
Biographical Information:
Arrest Details:
Processing Information:
Case Disposition:
The Torrington Code of Ordinances, which is regularly updated and maintained through the Municipal Code Library, provides the legal framework for many arrests conducted within city limits. These ordinances, along with Wyoming state statutes, form the basis for charges documented in arrest records.
It should be noted that pursuant to W.S. § 16-4-203(d), certain sensitive information may be redacted from publicly available arrest records, including social security numbers, medical information, and information that might compromise ongoing investigations.
Wyoming law provides mechanisms for the expungement of arrest records under specific circumstances. The process is governed primarily by W.S. § 7-13-1401 through § 7-13-1408, which establishes eligibility criteria and procedural requirements.
Eligibility Criteria: Individuals may petition for expungement of Torrington arrest records if:
Statutory Waiting Periods:
Application Process: The expungement process requires filing a petition with the Goshen County District Court. The petition must include:
Hearing and Determination: Upon receipt of a properly filed petition, the court will schedule a hearing. The prosecuting attorney who handled the original case will be notified and may contest the expungement. The court considers several factors in making its determination:
If granted, an expungement order directs all relevant agencies, including the Torrington Police Department and Goshen County Sheriff's Office, to seal the records relating to the arrest and/or conviction. Pursuant to W.S. § 7-13-1401(c), expunged records are not destroyed but are segregated and made inaccessible to the general public.
The Torrington Municipal Court can provide guidance on expungement procedures for violations of municipal ordinances, while the District Court handles expungements for state law violations.