Alaska Warrant Search
In Alaska, individuals can conduct a warrant search through various government-owned sources. This typically involves accessing online databases provided by the state's law enforcement agencies or court systems. Additionally, individuals may be able to visit local law enforcement offices or courthouses to inquire about any active warrants in their name. Alternatively, requesters can use third-party platforms to conduct warrant searches.
What is a Warrant?
The Alaska Court System defines a warrant as a written order issued by a judge authorizing a law enforcement officer to make an arrest, search, or carry out a judgment. The most common warrants issued by Alaska judges are arrest, search, and bench warrants.
Are Warrants Public Records in Alaska?
Yes. Warrants are generally accessible to the public under the Alaska Public Records Act (APRA). Therefore, warrant records maintained by law enforcement agencies are open to inspection by the public during regular office hours. However, exceptions exist to this broad accessibility. For example, juvenile warrant records are deemed confidential in Alaska. Additionally, search warrant applications, supporting affidavits, and original and duplicate warrants are sealed until the warrant is executed and returned to the issuing authority.
How Do I Look Up Warrants in Alaska?
Individuals searching for warrants in Alaska can employ third-party websites. These platforms facilitate warrant searches by requiring the subject's first and last name. Users typically must agree to the terms of service and may be able to access basic warrant information for free. However, a comprehensive warrant search via third-party websites comes with a cost. This cost varies per website. A full warrant report costs between $2.95 and $4.95 for a 7-day unlimited access. A monthly subscription costs between $19.95 and $24.95.
What is a Search Warrant in Alaska?
Per AS § 12.35.120, a search warrant is a written order signed by an authorized judicial officer directed to a peace officer, commanding them to search for personal property and bring it before the judicial officer. Search warrants are only issued upon proof of probable cause, supported by oath or affirmation (A. S. § 12.35.010).
-
Are Search Warrants Public Records in Alaska
Yes, search warrants are generally considered public records in Alaska. However, juvenile search warrants are confidential. Per Alaska R. Crim. P. 37(e), the record of proceedings and all related documents, including search warrants, affidavits, receipts, and inventories, are sealed until:
-
The record is ordered unsealed by the court
-
Four years have elapsed since the issuance of the search warrant or
-
The warrant is identified in a charting document or a notice filed by the prosecutor
-
How Long Does it Take to Get a Search Warrant in Alaska?
The time it takes to obtain a search warrant in Alaska can vary depending on the circumstances of the case. Typically, law enforcement officers must present evidence and information to a judicial officer demonstrating probable cause to justify the issuance of the warrant. This process may involve preparing affidavits, gathering supporting documentation, and presenting oral testimony if necessary. Once the judicial officer reviews the evidence and determines that probable cause exists, they may issue the search warrant. The entire process, from the initial application for the warrant to its issuance, can take several hours or even longer.
-
How Long Does a Search Warrant Last
Per Alaska R. Crim. P. 37(b), all search warrants must be executed and returned within 30 days after their date of issuance. However, the court may extend the expiry date by 30 days for good cause. To qualify for an extension, the executing officer must submit a sworn application before the expiration of the initial 30-day period. Judges can extend the search warrant execution period to protect the confidentiality of an ongoing investigation and protect a person working with law enforcement authorities on an investigation.
What is a Bench Warrant in Alaska?
Per Alaska R. Crim. P. 4(a)(1), a judge issues an arrest warrant if it appears from a complaint or supporting affidavit(s) that there is probable cause to believe that a defendant has committed an offense.
What is an Arrest Warrant in Alaska?
The Alaska Court System defines an arrest warrant as a legal document issued by the court authorizing a law enforcement officer to arrest an individual suspected of committing a crime. An Alaska arrest warrant contains the following information:
- The judge’s signature
- The defendant’s name (if unknown, an identifying description of the defendant)
- A description of the offense charged in the co
- A command that the defendant be arrested and brought before the judge
- An endorsement by the judge of the bail amount
How to Check if You Have a Warrant in Alaska
The most common method of checking for warrants in Alaska is in person at law enforcement agencies. All in-person requests should be made during business hours. The record staff would require a name, a birth date, and a valid ID to process the request.
Alternatively, individuals can request their criminal history records from the Alaska Department of Public Safety Criminal Records and Identification Bureau (R&I). Requesters can submit name-based or fingerprint-based requests. Name-based requests involve submitting a Report Available to the Record Subject form alongside a $20 fee to the Bureau. Fingerprint requesters must complete a standard FBI Applicant fingerprint card (FD-258) at a local fingerprint service provider’s office or law enforcement agency. The fingerprints, a $35 fee, and a cover letter that includes the reason for the request must be mailed to:
Alaska Department of Public Safety
5700 E. Tudor Road
Anchorage, AK 99507
Attn: Criminal Records & Identification Bureau
Can You Check Warrants Online in Alaska?
Yes. the Alaska State Police has a Warrant List available to the public on its website. The list reveals the subject of the warrant’s full name, sex, age, bail amount, description, warrant type, and court order. Additionally, some local law enforcement agencies in Alaska have warrant lists on their websites. For example, the Fairbanks Police Department has a Wanted List where individuals with warrants in the City of Fairbanks are listed.
How To Find Out If You Have a Warrant for Free
Most law enforcement agencies in Alaska provide free warrant information to the public. Below are some ways to access warrant records at no cost:
- Utilize warrant lists provided by state and local law enforcement agencies
- Contact the local courthouse or city police department to inquire about warrant information
- Visit the local law enforcement agencies during business hours
How to Find Out if Someone Has a Warrant Online For Free in Alaska
The Alaska State Troopers provides a free directory of Active Warrants in Alaska on its website. This list is available in PDF and CSV formats and updated daily, allowing the public to ascertain if someone has an outstanding warrant. Requesters can also utilize free warrant lists published by city police departments in Alaska to determine if someone has a warrant online.
How Long Does a Warrant Stay Active in Alaska?
In Alaska, the average warrant validity period varies depending on the type. Arrest bench warrants remain active indefinitely until served, while search warrants are typically valid for 30 days.
How Do I Find Out If I Have a Federal Warrant?
One can utilize several options to determine if a federal warrant is issued against an individual. These include accessing online databases provided by federal law enforcement agencies such as the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) or the United States Marshals Service. Additionally, individuals can contact these agencies directly or visit their respective websites to inquire about warrant information. It's essential to note that accessing federal warrant information may involve specific procedures and requirements, and not all information may be readily accessible to the public.
States