>Clayton County Arrest Records Online

Clayton County, Iowa Arrest Records

Are Arrest Records Public in Clayton County, Iowa?

Arrest records are public in Clayton County, Iowa, pursuant to Iowa Code Chapter 22, commonly known as the Iowa Public Records Law. This legislation establishes that government records, including arrest records, shall be accessible to the public unless specifically exempted by statute. The maintenance of public access to these records serves multiple governmental and societal interests, including:

Ensuring transparency in law enforcement operations
Facilitating public oversight of judicial processes
Supporting the constitutional right to information about governmental activities
Enabling background checks for employment and housing purposes

The Clayton County Sheriff's Office maintains these records in accordance with Iowa Code § 22.2, which states that "every person shall have the right to examine and copy a public record and to publish or otherwise disseminate a public record or the information contained in a public record."

Certain portions of arrest records may be redacted or restricted if they contain confidential information as defined in Iowa Code § 22.7, such as details that might compromise an ongoing investigation or reveal the identity of a confidential informant.

Can Arrest Records be Found Online in Clayton County?

Clayton County arrest records are available through several online platforms maintained by county and state agencies. The Clayton County Sheriff's Office provides digital access to certain arrest information through their official website. Additionally, the Iowa Courts Online Search system contains electronic docket information that may include arrest details.

Online accessibility is governed by Iowa Administrative Code 481-6.9, which establishes guidelines for electronic access to public records. Users should be aware that:

Records available online may not be comprehensive
Some information may be delayed in posting
Certain sensitive information may be redacted from online versions
Official verification may require in-person requests

The Clayton County Clerk of District Court maintains the official court records that often contain the most complete information regarding arrests and subsequent court proceedings.

How to Look Up Clayton County Arrest Records in 2025

Members of the public seeking Clayton County arrest records in 2025 have multiple methods available, as prescribed by Iowa Code § 22.3. The following options are provided for accessing these public records:

Online Database Searches: The Iowa Courts Online Search system provides electronic access to court records, including those related to arrests. The Iowa Offender Search database also contains information about individuals currently in custody or under supervision.
Sheriff's Office Records Request: In-person requests can be submitted at:

Clayton County Sheriff's Office
22680 230th Street
Elkader, IA 52043
Phone: 563-245-2422
Official Website
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM
Clerk of Court Records Request: Court records related to arrests can be obtained from:

Clayton County Clerk of District Court
111 High Street NE
Elkader, IA 52043
Phone: 563-245-2204
Official Website
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM

Pursuant to Iowa Code § 22.3(1), agencies may charge reasonable fees for record retrieval and copying services. Current fee schedules are posted at each agency location and on their respective websites.

Contents of a Clayton County Arrest Record

Clayton County arrest records contain standardized information as required by Iowa Code § 804.29. These records typically include the following elements:

Full legal name of the arrested individual and any known aliases
Date of birth and demographic information
Date, time, and location of the arrest
Statutory charges filed at the time of arrest
Name and badge number of the arresting officer(s)
Booking photograph (mugshot)
Fingerprint records
Case number and court docket information
Bail or bond information, if applicable
Detention facility information, if the individual was incarcerated

The Clayton County Deputy Sheriffs are responsible for the accurate documentation of arrest information in accordance with Iowa law enforcement standards. These records are maintained by both the Sheriff's Office and the Clerk of District Court in their respective record management systems.

Certain sensitive information may be redacted from public versions of arrest records, including social security numbers, medical information, and information related to minors, pursuant to Iowa Code § 22.7.

Expungement of Arrest Records in Clayton County

Under Iowa Code Chapter 901C, certain individuals may be eligible to have their arrest records expunged from public access. Expungement in Clayton County follows state procedures and is available in specific circumstances, including:

Cases resulting in acquittal or dismissal of all charges
Cases where the defendant has completed a deferred judgment period successfully
Simple misdemeanor convictions after eight years with no subsequent convictions (excluding simple misdemeanor traffic violations)
Certain alcohol-related offenses for individuals who were under 21 at the time of the offense

The expungement process requires filing a petition with the Clayton County District Court. Pursuant to Iowa Code § 901C.2, the petition must include:

The case number and date of disposition
A statement that the defendant has paid all court costs, fees, and restitution
Documentation that all eligibility requirements have been met

Upon approval, the court will issue an order directing the removal of the record from public access. However, expunged records remain accessible to law enforcement agencies and certain government entities as specified in Iowa Code § 901C.2(6).

Clayton County District Court
111 High Street NE
Elkader, IA 52043
Phone: 563-245-1451
Official Website
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM