Connecticut State Police Records are official documents created and maintained by the Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection (DESPP). These records include incident reports, accident reports, fatality reports, arrest records, criminal history checks, and fingerprint-based background checks. The Central Records Division in Middletown serves as the primary hub for processing public requests. Most records are available to the public under Connecticut’s Freedom of Information Act, though some sensitive information may be redacted. Whether you need a copy of a crash report, a background check for employment, or verification of an arrest, understanding how to request these records correctly saves time and avoids delays.
Records are processed in person or by mail, with clear rules on fees, required documents, and processing times. Walk-in service is available Tuesday through Thursday from 9:00 am to 2:00 pm at 1111 Country Club Road, Middletown, CT. Each person can submit up to two requests per day. Fees are $16 per incident report. Mailed requests must include a prepaid return envelope, a government-issued photo ID copy, and the case number if known. The same fee applies. For criminal history checks, the Bureau of Identification handles fingerprinting and background verification. These services support jobs in education, healthcare, government, and licensing.
How to Request Connecticut State Police Records
To get a copy of a Connecticut State Police record, you can visit the Central Records Division in person or send your request by mail. In-person visits do not require appointments. You may request up to two reports per calendar day. Accepted payment methods are cash, check, or major credit card. Each incident report costs $16. If mailing your request, include a self-addressed stamped envelope, a copy of your driver’s license or passport, and the case number if available. The division returns documents using the method specified in your envelope.
For criminal history checks, applicants must go through the Bureau of Identification. This requires a fingerprint card, a signed request form, and valid photo ID. Fingerprinting costs $15. A State Criminal History Check is $75 and includes arrests, convictions, and dispositions since 1970. Results typically arrive within ten business days. An extra $20 provides expedited service. A Letter of Good Conduct costs $30 and takes about twelve business days. This letter is often needed for job applications in schools, hospitals, or state agencies.
Types of Records Available
Connecticut State Police maintain several types of public records. Incident reports describe crimes or events investigated by troopers. Accident reports detail motor vehicle crashes involving state police response. Fatality reports document deaths investigated by the agency. Arrest records show when someone was taken into custody, the charges filed, and the final outcome. These records are kept for at least twenty years before being archived.
Criminal history checks provide a summary of a person’s interactions with law enforcement in Connecticut. They include arrests, charges, court dispositions, and convictions. These checks are used for employment screening, licensing, and volunteer work. The Bureau of Identification also offers federal background checks for $13.25 and a combined state-federal package for $85. Fingerprint results are usually returned within five business days.
Fingerprinting and Background Check Services
Fingerprinting is required for most criminal history checks. The Bureau of Identification offers this service at headquarters in Middletown. You must bring a valid driver’s license, Connecticut ID card, or passport. The fee is $15, payable by cash, check, or credit card. Fingerprints are captured on standard FD-258 cards used by law enforcement nationwide.
After fingerprinting, you can request a State Criminal History Check for $75. This report includes all arrests and convictions in Connecticut since 1970. It shows the date of arrest, charge, arresting agency, and final disposition. Employers, schools, and licensing boards use this for background screening. A Letter of Good Conduct costs $30 and confirms no criminal record exists. It is commonly required for jobs in education, healthcare, or government.
Online Access and Third-Party Portals
While the Connecticut State Police do not offer a direct online portal for all records, several authorized websites provide searchable databases. StateRecords.org and County Office aggregate public data from all eight counties. Users can search by name, date of birth, or case number. These sites offer PDF downloads for a small fee. They mirror official records but are not government-run. Always verify critical information with the Central Records Division.
The Judicial Branch of Connecticut also provides an online docket search. This tool lets you track pending criminal or civil cases by party name, case number, or filing date. It is free to use and updated regularly. For certified copies of court documents, you must contact the clerk’s office in the relevant jurisdiction. Some records may require a formal public records request.
Fees, Payment, and Processing Times
Fees for Connecticut State Police Records vary by service. Incident reports cost $16 each. Arrest records have a $25 processing fee. Criminal history checks are $75. A Letter of Good Conduct is $30. Fingerprinting is $15. Federal checks are $13.25. The combined state-federal package is $85. Payments can be made by cash, check, or major credit card at the office. Mailed requests must include a check or money order.
Processing times depend on the type of request. Standard criminal history checks take ten business days. Expedited service adds $20 and speeds up delivery. Letters of Good Conduct take about twelve business days. Fingerprint results are usually ready in five business days. Mailed requests may take longer due to postal delivery. Always include a prepaid return envelope to avoid delays.
Locations and Office Hours
The main office for Connecticut State Police Records is at 1111 Country Club Road, Middletown, CT 06457. The Central Records Division handles walk-in requests Tuesday through Thursday from 9:00 am to 2:00 pm. No appointments are needed. General public services at headquarters operate Monday through Friday from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm. Limited Saturday walk-ins are available with reduced staff.
Fingerprinting services are offered by appointment only. You can schedule one by calling (860) 555-1234 or using the online portal. The DESPP-HQ Fingerprint Identification Unit reopened in June 2020 with safety protocols. Appointments help manage wait times and ensure proper staffing. Always bring valid photo ID and payment.
State Police Troops and District Coverage
Connecticut State Police are divided into four geographic districts: Western, Central, Eastern, and Southern. Each has a headquarters and dedicated phone lines. The Western District covers Litchfield and surrounding towns, based at 452-B Bantam Road, Litchfield. The Central District serves Hartford and nearby areas from 269 Maxim Road. The Eastern District is in Norwich at 60 East River Road. The Southern District operates from 123 Main Street in New Haven.
Each district handles traffic enforcement, criminal investigations, and community outreach. They maintain public affairs officers for media inquiries. The 800 numbers listed are only accessible within Connecticut. For non-emergencies, call the local troop. For records, always contact the Central Records Division in Middletown, not individual troops.
Public Records Law and Your Rights
Under Connecticut General Statutes § 1-210, most police records are public. This includes incident reports, arrest logs, and criminal histories. However, certain details may be withheld to protect privacy, ongoing investigations, or victim safety. Redactions are common in domestic violence, juvenile, or sexual assault cases. You have the right to request a review if you believe information was improperly withheld.
Requests can be denied only under specific exemptions. These include active investigations, personal privacy, or national security. If your request is denied, you may appeal to the Freedom of Information Commission. The process is free and does not require a lawyer. Most disputes are resolved within 60 days.
Common Uses for Police Records
People request Connecticut State Police Records for many reasons. Employers use criminal history checks to screen job applicants. Schools require Letters of Good Conduct for teachers and staff. Healthcare facilities verify backgrounds for nurses and technicians. Individuals may need accident reports for insurance claims or legal cases. Lawyers use arrest records for defense preparation.
Landlords sometimes check criminal histories before renting. Volunteers for youth programs must pass background checks. Licensing boards for real estate, firearms, or cosmetology require clean records. Even genealogists use old arrest logs to trace family history. Knowing what records are available helps you prepare the right request.
Tips for a Successful Request
To avoid delays, always include a clear description of the record you need. Provide the case number if known. Include your full name, date of birth, and contact information. Attach a copy of your government-issued photo ID. For mailed requests, use a sturdy envelope and prepaid return mail. Label everything clearly.
Double-check fees before submitting. Pay exact amounts when possible. Keep receipts for all transactions. If you don’t receive a response within two weeks, call the Central Records Division. Follow up politely but persistently. Most issues are resolved quickly with clear communication.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a police record online?
The Connecticut State Police do not offer full online access to all records. However, third-party sites like StateRecords.org and County Office provide searchable databases. For certified copies, you must request them in person or by mail from the Central Records Division.
How long does it take to get a criminal history check?
Standard processing takes ten business days. Expedited service is available for an extra $20. Fingerprint results are usually returned within five business days. Letters of Good Conduct take about twelve business days.
Do I need an appointment for fingerprinting?
Yes. Fingerprinting is by appointment only. Call (860) 555-1234 or use the online portal to schedule. Walk-ins are not accepted for this service.
Are arrest records public in Connecticut?
Yes. Arrest records are public under state law and kept for at least twenty years. They include the date, charge, arresting agency, and final disposition. A $25 fee applies for processing.
Can I request someone else’s record?
Only under certain conditions. You may request a record if you are the subject, an authorized representative, or have a court order. Third-party requests require written consent or legal authority.
What if my record has errors?
Contact the Bureau of Identification to correct mistakes. You may need to submit proof, such as court documents. The process is free and usually resolved within 30 days.
Is there a fee waiver for low-income applicants?
Fee waivers are rare and granted only in exceptional cases, such as court-ordered requests or nonprofit work. You must submit a written appeal with supporting documents.
Contact Information
Central Records Division
1111 Country Club Road
Middletown, CT 06457
Phone: (860) 685-8200
Hours: Tuesday–Thursday, 9:00 am–2:00 pm (walk-ins)
Monday–Friday, 8:00 am–5:00 pm (general services)
Saturday: Limited walk-ins (call ahead)
For fingerprinting appointments:
Call (860) 555-1234 or visit the DESPP online portal.
Official website: https://portal.ct.gov/DESPP