Cobb County Arrest Records
Are Arrest Records Public in Cobb County
Arrest records in Cobb County are considered public records under Georgia's Open Records Act (O.C.G.A. § 50-18-70). This statute establishes that records created, received, or maintained by public agencies, including law enforcement agencies, are generally accessible to the public. The Georgia Open Records Act specifically provides that "all public records shall be open for personal inspection and copying" by any citizen of the state, with certain statutory exceptions.
Arrest records differ from conviction records in several important aspects. An arrest record documents that an individual was taken into custody by law enforcement based on probable cause that they committed a crime. A conviction record, conversely, indicates that the individual was found guilty of a criminal offense through a court proceeding. Under Georgia law, both arrest and conviction records are generally public, though certain exceptions apply.
The Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI), which maintains the state's criminal history record information, follows specific policies regarding the dissemination of arrest records in accordance with O.C.G.A. § 35-3-34. While most arrest records remain public, certain records may be restricted if:
- The arrest did not result in a conviction
- The case was dismissed
- The individual completed a first offender or conditional discharge program
- The record was sealed or expunged by court order
The Cobb County Sheriff's Office and Cobb County Police Department maintain arrest records in compliance with state law and make them available to the public with appropriate statutory limitations.
What's in Cobb County Arrest Records
Cobb County arrest records contain comprehensive information about individuals who have been taken into custody by law enforcement agencies within the county. These records typically include the following categories of information:
Arrestee Identifying Information:
- Full legal name (including aliases or known nicknames)
- Date of birth
- Gender
- Race/ethnicity
- Physical description (height, weight, eye color, hair color)
- Identifying marks (tattoos, scars, etc.)
- Residential address
- Photograph (mugshot)
- Fingerprints
Arrest Details:
- Date and time of arrest
- Location of arrest
- Arresting agency
- Arresting officer's name and badge number
- Reason for arrest
- Use of force information (if applicable)
Charge Information:
- Criminal charges filed
- Charge classification (misdemeanor or felony)
- Charge severity
- Statute or ordinance violated
- Charge description
Warrant Information (if applicable):
- Warrant number
- Issuing court
- Date issued
- Type of warrant (arrest, bench, search)
- Warrant status
Booking Information:
- Booking date and time
- Booking number
- Processing officer
- Property inventory
- Medical screening information
Bond/Bail Information:
- Bond amount
- Bond type (cash, property, surety)
- Bond status (posted, denied, pending)
- Conditions of release
- Release date (if applicable)
Court Information:
- Court of jurisdiction
- Case number
- Scheduled court appearances
- Judge assigned
- Prosecutor assigned
Custody Status:
- Current detention status
- Facility of incarceration (if applicable)
- Housing unit/cell assignment
- Projected release date (if sentenced)
Additional Information May Include:
- Prior arrest history
- Known associates
- Vehicle information
- Employment information
- Emergency contact information
- Immigration status
- Probation/parole status
The specific content of arrest records may vary depending on the arresting agency, the nature of the offense, and the information available at the time of arrest. All information is collected and maintained in accordance with Georgia law and Cobb County Sheriff's Office policies.
How To Look Up Arrest Records in Cobb County in 2026
Members of the public seeking arrest records in Cobb County may utilize several methods to access this information. The county maintains current systems for record retrieval that accommodate both in-person and remote requests. Individuals may pursue the following options:
In-Person Requests at the Cobb County Sheriff's Office:
- Visit the Records Division during regular business hours
- Complete a records request form, available at the counter
- Provide proper identification (government-issued photo ID)
- Specify the information being requested (name, date of birth, case number)
- Pay applicable fees (currently $5.00 for the first page and $0.50 for each additional page)
- Wait for processing (simple requests may be fulfilled while you wait; more complex requests may take 3-5 business days)
Cobb County Sheriff's Office Records Division
1825 County Services Parkway
Marietta, GA 30008
770-499-4600
Cobb County Sheriff's Office
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Written Requests by Mail:
- Submit a written request including:
- Requestor's full name and contact information
- Specific information being requested
- Date range of records sought
- Notarized signature (for third-party requests)
- Include a check or money order for applicable fees
- Mail to the Cobb County Sheriff's Office Records Division address
- Allow 7-10 business days for processing
Email Requests:
- Email records request to records@cobbsheriff.org
- Include all relevant information as outlined for written requests
- Attach a completed records request form (downloadable from the Sheriff's Office website)
- Await confirmation email and payment instructions
- Records will be provided after payment is received
Requests Through the Cobb County Clerk of Superior Court: For arrest records that have resulted in court cases:
Cobb County Clerk of Superior Court
70 Haynes Street
Marietta, GA 30090
770-528-1300
Cobb County Clerk of Superior Court
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
When requesting arrest records, pursuant to O.C.G.A. § 50-18-71, agencies may charge reasonable fees for search, retrieval, and copying of records. Requestors should be prepared to provide specific identifying information to facilitate the search process and minimize fees.
How To Find Cobb County Arrest Records Online
Cobb County provides several digital resources for accessing arrest records through official government portals. These online systems offer convenient alternatives to in-person requests. Members of the public may utilize the following online methods:
Cobb County Sheriff's Office Inmate Search:
- Navigate to the Cobb County Sheriff's Office website
- Locate the "Inmate Search" function on the homepage
- Enter the individual's name or booking number
- Review the results, which typically include:
- Current inmates
- Booking information
- Charges
- Bond information
- Court dates
- Release information (if applicable)
Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) Online Records Check:
- Visit the GBI's Georgia Crime Information Center (GCIC) website
- Select "Online Records Check" option
- Create an account or log in to existing account
- Pay the required fee (currently $15.00 per search)
- Enter the subject's personal information
- Submit the request and receive results electronically
Georgia Department of Corrections Offender Search: For individuals who have been convicted and sentenced to state custody:
- Access the Georgia Department of Corrections website
- Select "Offender Search" from the main menu
- Enter name, GDC ID number, or other identifying information
- Review results for current custody status and facility information
Cobb County Judicial System Case Search: For arrest records that have progressed to court proceedings:
- Visit the Cobb County Superior Court Clerk's website
- Select "Case Search" from the available options
- Enter case number, defendant name, or other search criteria
- Review case information, including charges, hearings, and disposition
Third-Party Background Check Services: Several commercial services aggregate public records, including arrest information. While these services charge fees, they may provide comprehensive reports from multiple jurisdictions. Users should verify that these services comply with the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) if the information will be used for employment, housing, or credit purposes.
When accessing arrest records online, users should note that the most current and complete information is maintained by the arresting agency. Online systems may experience delays in updates or may not contain all details available in the official record. For comprehensive arrest information, direct contact with the Cobb County Sheriff's Office Records Division remains the most reliable method.
How To Search Cobb County Arrest Records for Free?
Members of the public seeking no-cost access to Cobb County arrest records have several options available through publicly funded resources. These free methods provide basic arrest information without requiring payment of search or copy fees:
Cobb County Sheriff's Office Online Inmate Search: The Sheriff's Office maintains a free public database that includes:
- Current inmate population
- Recent bookings (typically within the past 72 hours)
- Basic arrest information
- Charges
- Bond amounts
- Court dates
This resource is accessible through the Cobb County Sheriff's Office website and requires no login or payment.
Public Access Terminals at Government Facilities: Free computer terminals are available for public use at:
Cobb County Public Library System - Central Library
266 Roswell Street
Marietta, GA 30060
770-528-2320
Cobb County Public Library
Hours: Monday-Thursday, 9:00 AM - 8:00 PM; Friday-Saturday, 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Cobb County Superior Court Clerk's Office
70 Haynes Street
Marietta, GA 30090
770-528-1300
Cobb County Clerk of Superior Court
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Daily Arrest Reports: The Cobb County Police Department publishes daily arrest logs that are available:
- On the department's website
- At police headquarters for in-person review
- Through public information officers upon request
Cobb County Police Department Headquarters
140 North Marietta Parkway
Marietta, GA 30060
770-499-3900
Cobb County Police Department
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Court Dockets and Calendars: Public court proceedings related to arrests are listed on:
- Publicly posted court calendars at the courthouse
- The Cobb County Judicial Circuit website
- Public bulletin boards in government buildings
Open Records Requests: While the initial request for records under the Georgia Open Records Act is free, agencies may charge reasonable fees for search, retrieval, and copying. However, individuals may:
- Specify to view records in person rather than requesting copies
- Inspect records at no cost during regular business hours
- Take notes or photographs of records (where permitted)
- Request fee waivers based on public interest considerations
When utilizing free resources, members of the public should note that information may be limited compared to official records obtained through formal channels. For comprehensive arrest history information, the Georgia Bureau of Investigation's criminal history record check remains the most authoritative source, though fees apply for this service.
How To Delete Arrest Records in Cobb County
The process of removing arrest records from public access in Cobb County involves either expungement (complete removal) or record restriction (limiting public access). These processes are governed by Georgia law, specifically O.C.G.A. § 35-3-37, which establishes eligibility criteria and procedures.
Record Restriction vs. Expungement: Georgia law uses the term "record restriction" rather than expungement. Record restriction limits public access to arrest records but does not completely delete them from law enforcement databases. Restricted records remain available to criminal justice agencies but are not disclosed to the general public or in background checks.
Eligibility for Record Restriction: Under current Georgia law, arrest records may be eligible for restriction if:
- The case was dismissed or nolle prossed
- The individual was found not guilty by a judge or jury
- The individual completed a pre-trial diversion or intervention program
- The individual successfully completed a first offender or conditional discharge sentence
- The arrest occurred before July 1, 2013, and has not led to a conviction for at least seven years
- The individual was convicted of certain misdemeanors while under 21 years of age
Record Restriction Process:
- Obtain certified copies of final dispositions from the Clerk of Court where the case was handled
- Complete the "Request for Restriction of Criminal History Record Information" form (available from the Georgia Bureau of Investigation)
- Submit the application to the arresting agency (Cobb County Police Department or Sheriff's Office)
- The arresting agency reviews the application and forwards approved requests to the Prosecuting Attorney's Office
- The Prosecuting Attorney reviews and forwards approved requests to the Georgia Crime Information Center
- GBI processes the restriction in the state database
Cobb County District Attorney's Office
70 Haynes Street, Suite 2900
Marietta, GA 30090
770-528-3080
Cobb County District Attorney
Automatic Record Restriction: Pursuant to O.C.G.A. § 35-3-37(j)(1), certain arrest records may be automatically restricted if:
- The charges were dismissed or nolle prossed
- No indictment or accusation was filed within the statute of limitations
- The individual was acquitted of all charges
Pardons and Restoration of Rights: For convictions that do not qualify for record restriction, individuals may apply for:
- A pardon from the State Board of Pardons and Paroles
- Restoration of civil and political rights
- A pardon for innocence (in cases of wrongful conviction)
State Board of Pardons and Paroles
2 Martin Luther King, Jr. Drive SE
Suite 458, Balcony Level, East Tower
Atlanta, GA 30334
404-656-4661
Georgia State Board of Pardons and Paroles
Individuals seeking record restriction should consult with an attorney familiar with Georgia's record restriction laws, as the process can be complex and eligibility requirements are subject to specific legal interpretations. The Georgia Justice Project offers resources and assistance to individuals seeking record restriction.
What Happens After Arrest in Cobb County?
Following an arrest in Cobb County, individuals enter a structured criminal justice process that includes several distinct phases. This process adheres to Georgia state law and local court procedures.
Initial Custody and Booking:
- Transportation to Cobb County Adult Detention Center
- Booking procedures, including:
- Fingerprinting
- Photographing (mugshot)
- Personal property inventory
- Medical screening
- Background check
- Assignment of a booking number and entry into jail management system
First Appearance Hearing:
- Occurs within 48-72 hours of arrest
- Conducted at the Cobb County Magistrate Court
- Judge informs defendant of:
- Charges
- Constitutional rights
- Right to counsel
- Preliminary determination of bail/bond
- Appointment of public defender if defendant qualifies
Cobb County Magistrate Court
32 Waddell Street
Marietta, GA 30090
770-528-8900
Cobb County Magistrate Court
Bond Determination:
- Factors considered include:
- Nature and severity of charges
- Criminal history
- Community ties
- Flight risk
- Public safety concerns
- Types of bonds available:
- Cash bond
- Property bond
- Surety bond (through bail bondsman)
- Own recognizance (OR) release
- Signature bond
Preliminary Hearing:
- Held for felony cases if requested
- Prosecution must demonstrate probable cause
- Judge determines if case should proceed
- May be waived if grand jury indictment is obtained
Formal Charging:
- Misdemeanors: Accusation filed by District Attorney
- Felonies: Case presented to grand jury for indictment
- Grand jury determines if sufficient evidence exists to proceed to trial
Arraignment:
- Formal reading of charges
- Defendant enters plea (guilty, not guilty, nolo contendere)
- Trial date may be set
- Discovery process begins
Pre-Trial Proceedings:
- Motion hearings
- Evidence suppression hearings
- Plea negotiations
- Diversion program consideration for eligible defendants
Trial:
- Jury selection
- Opening statements
- Presentation of evidence
- Closing arguments
- Jury deliberation
- Verdict
Sentencing (if convicted):
- Pre-sentence investigation may be ordered
- Victim impact statements
- Judge determines sentence based on:
- Georgia sentencing guidelines
- Statutory requirements
- Aggravating and mitigating factors
- Potential sentences include:
- Probation
- Fines
- Community service
- Incarceration
- Alternative sentencing programs
Post-Conviction:
- Right to appeal within 30 days
- Probation supervision if applicable
- Incarceration in:
- Cobb County Adult Detention Center (shorter sentences)
- Georgia Department of Corrections (longer sentences)
Throughout this process, defendants maintain constitutional rights including the right to counsel, the right to remain silent, the right to a speedy trial, and protection against unreasonable searches and seizures. The Cobb County criminal justice system operates under the presumption of innocence until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
How Long Are Arrest Records Kept in Cobb County?
Arrest records in Cobb County are maintained according to Georgia's records retention schedules as established by the Georgia Archives and in compliance with O.C.G.A. § 50-18-99, which governs records management for local government agencies. These retention periods ensure proper documentation of law enforcement activities while balancing public access rights with individual privacy concerns.
Standard Retention Periods:
- Arrest reports: 50 years from date of arrest
- Booking photographs (mugshots): 50 years from date of booking
- Fingerprint cards: Permanent retention
- Incident reports: 50 years from date of incident
- Investigation files: 25 years after case closure for felonies; 7 years for misdemeanors
- Jail records: 7 years after release from custody
- Warrant files: 7 years after service or cancellation
The Georgia Bureau of Investigation maintains the state's central repository of criminal history record information pursuant to O.C.G.A. § 35-3-33. These records are maintained indefinitely unless specifically restricted or expunged through court order or statutory process.
Different Agency Requirements: Various agencies within Cobb County maintain arrest records for different operational purposes:
- Cobb County Sheriff's Office: Maintains booking and custody records
- Cobb County Police Department: Maintains arrest and incident reports
- Cobb County District Attorney's Office: Maintains prosecution files
- Cobb County Clerk of Superior Court: Maintains court case records
- Georgia Bureau of Investigation: Maintains statewide criminal history database
Each agency follows specific retention schedules based on their functional responsibilities and statutory requirements.
Electronic vs. Physical Records: Modern record-keeping practices in Cobb County include both digital and physical storage:
- Digital records: Maintained in secure law enforcement databases with regular backup procedures
- Physical records: Stored in secure facilities with controlled access
- Microfilm/microfiche: Older records may be preserved in this format for long-term retention
Records Retention Justification: Extended retention periods for arrest records serve several important public purposes:
- Preservation of evidence for potential future legal proceedings
- Documentation of law enforcement activities for accountability
- Statistical analysis and crime pattern recognition
- Background checks for employment and licensing
- Recidivism studies and criminal justice research
Even when records are eligible for destruction under retention schedules, agencies may retain records longer if they:
- Relate to ongoing investigations
- Are subject to litigation holds
- Have historical significance
- Are needed for administrative purposes
The Georgia Archives' Local Government Records Retention Schedules provide the authoritative guidance on how long specific types of records must be maintained. These schedules are periodically updated to reflect changes in law and administrative requirements.
How to Find Mugshots in Cobb County
What Mugshots Are
Mugshots, formally known as booking photographs, are official photographs taken during the booking process following an arrest. In Cobb County, these photographs serve as visual identification records of individuals processed into the criminal justice system. Mugshots typically capture front-view and profile (side-view) images of the arrestee's face and upper body. These photographs become part of the official arrest record and are taken pursuant to standard law enforcement procedures established by the Cobb County Sheriff's Office.
Where Mugshots Are Maintained
Mugshots in Cobb County are primarily maintained by the following agencies:
Cobb County Sheriff's Office
1825 County Services Parkway
Marietta, GA 30008
770-499-4600
Cobb County Sheriff's Office
The Sheriff's Office maintains booking photographs as part of their jail management system and inmate records. These photographs are linked to booking numbers and arrest records in the county's database.
Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI)
3121 Panthersville Road
Decatur, GA 30034
404-244-2600
Georgia Bureau of Investigation
The GBI maintains a centralized repository of criminal history information, including mugshots, for arrests throughout Georgia.
Finding Mugshots
Members of the public seeking mugshots in Cobb County may utilize several methods:
-
Submit a formal open records request to the Cobb County Sheriff's Office:
- Complete an Open Records Request form
- Provide specific identifying information about the individual
- Submit the request in person, by mail, or via email
- Pay applicable fees for search and reproduction
-
Visit the Cobb County Sheriff's Office Records Division in person:
- Bring government-issued photo identification
- Provide specific information about the arrest (name, date, booking number)
- Request the booking photograph
- Pay applicable fees
-
Contact the arresting agency directly:
- Determine which law enforcement agency made the arrest
- Submit an open records request to that specific agency
- Provide detailed information to facilitate the search
Can They Be Found Online
The Cobb County Sheriff's Office provides limited online access to current inmate information, including mugshots, through their inmate search function. This database typically includes:
- Individuals currently in custody
- Recent bookings (generally within the past 72 hours)
- Basic arrest information
Historical mugshots are generally not available through official government websites but may require formal records requests. Several third-party websites aggregate and publish mugshots obtained from public records, but these sites may:
- Contain outdated or inaccurate information
- Charge fees for removal of photographs
- Not reflect expunged or restricted records
- Operate outside of official government oversight
Obtaining Mugshots Officially
To obtain official copies of mugshots from Cobb County authorities:
- Submit a written request under the Georgia Open Records Act to the Cobb County Sheriff's Office Records Division
- Include specific identifying information (full name, date of birth, approximate date of arrest)
- Specify the format requested (digital or physical copy)
- Pay established fees:
- Search and retrieval fees (based on time required)
- Copying fees ($0.10 per page for standard copies)
- Additional fees for certified copies if required
Restrictions on Mugshot Access
Access to mugshots in Cobb County is subject to certain legal limitations:
- Records that have been restricted (expunged) pursuant to O.C.G.A. § 35-3-37 are not available to the general public
- Juvenile arrest records and photographs are generally confidential under Georgia law
- Records pertaining to ongoing investigations may be temporarily withheld
- Georgia's 2013 Mugshot Law (O.C.G.A. § 10-1-393.5) prohibits websites from charging fees to remove mugshots if the individual was acquitted or the case was dismissed
Individuals concerned about their mugshots appearing online should consult with an attorney regarding Georgia's laws on record restriction and remedies for improper publication of arrest information.