Rockingham County Criminal Records
What Is Rockingham County Criminal Records
Rockingham County criminal records constitute official documentation maintained by various government agencies that chronicle an individual's interactions with the criminal justice system within Rockingham County, New Hampshire. These records serve as the official history of arrests, charges, court proceedings, and dispositions of criminal cases.
Criminal records in Rockingham County encompass several distinct categories:
- Arrest Records: Documentation of when an individual is taken into custody by law enforcement, including the Rockingham County Sheriff's Office or local police departments. These records typically contain the date of arrest, charges, and booking information.
- Conviction Records: Official documentation of criminal cases resulting in a guilty verdict or plea, whether through trial or plea agreement.
- Felony Records: Documentation of more serious offenses punishable by imprisonment exceeding one year, as defined under New Hampshire Revised Statutes § 625:9.
- Misdemeanor Records: Documentation of less serious offenses typically punishable by up to one year in county jail and/or fines.
- Juvenile Records: Documentation of offenses committed by individuals under 18 years of age. Pursuant to New Hampshire Revised Statutes § 169-B:35, these records are generally sealed and not accessible to the public.
- Warrant Information: Documentation of active warrants for arrest or bench warrants issued by Rockingham County courts.
Multiple agencies maintain criminal records in Rockingham County:
Rockingham County Sheriff's Office
99 North Road
Brentwood, NH 03833
(603) 679-2225
Rockingham County Sheriff's Office
Rockingham County Superior Court
Rockingham County Courthouse
10 Route 125
Brentwood, NH 03833
(855) 212-1234
New Hampshire Judicial Branch
New Hampshire State Police
Criminal Records Unit
33 Hazen Drive
Concord, NH 03305
(603) 223-3867
New Hampshire Department of Safety
The comprehensive nature of criminal records includes documentation of arraignments, pleas, trial proceedings, verdicts, sentencing, probation, and parole information. These records are maintained according to state and federal guidelines for record retention and public access.
Are Criminal Records Public In Rockingham County
Criminal records in Rockingham County are generally considered public records under New Hampshire's Right-to-Know Law, codified in RSA Chapter 91-A. This statute establishes the presumption that government records, including criminal records, shall be available for public inspection and copying.
The New Hampshire Supreme Court has consistently upheld that "the purpose of the Right-to-Know Law is to ensure both the greatest possible public access to the actions, discussions and records of all public bodies, and to ensure the accountability of the public servants." However, this right of access is not absolute and contains several important exceptions.
Records that are generally accessible to the public include:
- Adult conviction records
- Court dockets and calendars
- Criminal case filings
- Sentencing information
- Incarceration records
- Sex offender registry information
Records that are restricted or exempt from public disclosure include:
- Ongoing criminal investigations, as protected under RSA 91-A:5, IV
- Juvenile records, sealed pursuant to RSA 169-B:35
- Records sealed by court order
- Grand jury proceedings
- Certain victim information, particularly in cases involving sexual assault or domestic violence
- Records where disclosure would constitute an unwarranted invasion of privacy
The New Hampshire Judicial Branch maintains specific policies regarding public access to court records. The courts balance the public's right to access information with individual privacy concerns and the efficient administration of justice. Court records are presumptively open to public inspection unless specifically exempted by statute, court rule, or court order.
Law enforcement agencies in Rockingham County, including the Sheriff's Office and local police departments, maintain arrest records and incident reports that may be available to the public, though certain investigative materials may be withheld if their release would compromise an ongoing investigation or prosecution.
Members of the public seeking access to criminal records should be aware that while the records may be public, the agencies maintaining them may require formal requests and charge reasonable fees for searching and copying records.
How To Look Up Criminal Records In Rockingham County in 2026
Members of the public seeking criminal records in Rockingham County may utilize several methods to access this information. The following procedures are currently in effect for obtaining criminal records:
In-Person Requests at the Rockingham County Superior Court:
- Visit the Rockingham County Superior Court Clerk's Office during regular business hours (Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM).
- Complete a record request form, providing the subject's full name and, if possible, date of birth.
- Present valid government-issued photo identification.
- Pay applicable search and copy fees (currently $25 for a record search plus $1 per page for copies).
- For certified copies, an additional fee of $10 per document applies.
Rockingham County Superior Court
10 Route 125
Brentwood, NH 03833
(855) 212-1234
New Hampshire Judicial Branch
Mail Requests to the New Hampshire State Police:
- Download and complete the Criminal Record Release Authorization Form available on the New Hampshire Department of Safety website.
- Include a check or money order for the current fee ($25 for each name search).
- Provide a self-addressed stamped envelope.
- Mail the completed form, payment, and return envelope to:
New Hampshire State Police
Criminal Records Unit
33 Hazen Drive
Concord, NH 03305
(603) 223-3867
New Hampshire Department of Safety
Requests at Local Police Departments:
- Contact the police department in the municipality where the incident occurred.
- Complete a records request form specifying the information sought.
- Provide identification and pay any applicable fees.
- Note that local departments may only have records for incidents within their jurisdiction.
Rockingham County Sheriff's Office Records:
- Visit the Sheriff's Office during business hours (Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM).
- Complete a public records request form.
- Provide specific information about the record being requested.
- Pay applicable fees for search and copies.
Rockingham County Sheriff's Office
99 North Road
Brentwood, NH 03833
(603) 679-2225
Rockingham County Sheriff's Office
For all record requests, providing as much identifying information as possible (full name, date of birth, case numbers) will expedite the search process. Pursuant to New Hampshire's Right-to-Know Law, agencies must respond to requests within five business days.
How To Find Criminal Records in Rockingham County Online?
Rockingham County residents and interested parties can access various criminal records through several online portals maintained by state and county agencies. These digital resources provide convenient access to public information without requiring in-person visits to government offices.
New Hampshire Judicial Branch Public Case Access:
The New Hampshire Judicial Branch maintains a comprehensive online case lookup system that allows users to search for criminal cases filed in Rockingham County courts.
- Visit the New Hampshire Court Case Access Portal.
- Select "Public Case Access" from the available options.
- Create a user account if you don't already have one.
- Search by name, case number, or attorney.
- Filter results by case type (criminal) and location (Rockingham County).
- Review basic case information including charges, hearing dates, and case status.
This system provides access to case summaries, docket entries, and scheduled court dates. However, it does not include complete case files or documents.
Rockingham County Department of Corrections Inmate Lookup:
The Rockingham County Department of Corrections maintains an online inmate search tool:
- Navigate to the Rockingham County Department of Corrections website.
- Select the "Inmate Search" option.
- Enter the individual's name or inmate ID number.
- Review current incarceration status, charges, and expected release date for current inmates.
This database only includes individuals currently in custody at the Rockingham County Department of Corrections facility.
New Hampshire Sex Offender Registry:
The New Hampshire Department of Safety maintains a searchable sex offender registry that includes offenders residing in Rockingham County:
- Visit the New Hampshire Sex Offender Registry.
- Search by name, town, or zip code to locate registered sex offenders in Rockingham County.
- View offender photographs, addresses, conviction information, and registration status.
New Hampshire Department of Corrections Offender Records Search:
For information on individuals currently under state supervision:
- Access the NH Department of Corrections Offender Records Search.
- Enter the individual's name or offender ID.
- Review current status, facility location, and potential release date.
Users should note that online systems have certain limitations:
- Historical records may not be fully digitized
- Certain sensitive or sealed records are excluded
- Document attachments often require in-person requests
- Registration may be required for some systems
- Information is updated according to varying schedules
For the most comprehensive criminal record information, combining online searches with formal requests to the appropriate agencies is recommended.
Can You Search Rockingham County Criminal Records for Free?
Rockingham County residents and members of the public have several options for accessing criminal records without payment, though certain limitations apply to free searches. New Hampshire's Right-to-Know Law, RSA 91-A, establishes the public's right to inspect many government records without charge, though fees may be assessed for copies or extensive searches.
Free In-Person Inspection Options:
The following locations offer free in-person inspection of criminal records:
Rockingham County Superior Court
10 Route 125
Brentwood, NH 03833
(855) 212-1234
New Hampshire Judicial Branch
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM
Visitors may inspect public court files at no cost using public access terminals. Court staff will retrieve files upon request, and individuals may review documents on-site without charge. However, printing or copying documents incurs a fee of $1 per page.
Rockingham County Sheriff's Office
99 North Road
Brentwood, NH 03833
(603) 679-2225
Rockingham County Sheriff's Office
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM
The Sheriff's Office allows public inspection of arrest logs and certain other public records without charge. Extensive searches or document production may incur fees.
Free Online Resources:
Several online portals provide free access to criminal record information:
-
New Hampshire Court Case Access Portal - Provides basic case information including charges, hearing dates, and case status without charge. Registration is required but free.
-
Rockingham County Department of Corrections Inmate Lookup - Offers free searches of current inmates in the county correctional facility.
-
New Hampshire Sex Offender Registry - Provides free public access to information about registered sex offenders residing in Rockingham County.
-
New Hampshire Department of Corrections Offender Records Search - Allows free searches for individuals currently under state supervision.
Limitations of Free Searches:
While basic record inspection may be free, users should be aware of these limitations:
- Certified copies always incur fees
- Extensive searches may require payment
- Staff assistance for complex searches may involve charges
- Background checks for employment or licensing purposes require payment
- Historical or archived records may involve retrieval fees
- Some detailed information may only be available through paid requests
Pursuant to RSA 91-A:4, agencies may charge for the actual cost of providing copies but cannot charge for inspection of records. However, if a request requires extensive redaction or preparation, reasonable fees may be assessed for staff time.
What's Included in a Rockingham County Criminal Record?
Rockingham County criminal records contain comprehensive information documenting an individual's interactions with the criminal justice system. These records typically include several categories of information that collectively provide a detailed account of criminal proceedings.
Identifying Information:
- Full legal name and any known aliases
- Date of birth and age at time of offense
- Physical description (height, weight, eye/hair color, distinguishing features)
- Booking photograph (mugshot)
- Last known address
- State Identification Number (SID)
- FBI number (if applicable)
- Fingerprint classification
Arrest Information:
- Date, time, and location of arrest
- Arresting agency and officer identification
- Booking number and facility
- Initial charges filed by law enforcement
- Probable cause statement
- Bail or bond amount and status
- Detention facility information
- Property/evidence seized during arrest
Court Case Information:
- Court case/docket number
- Court of jurisdiction (District or Superior Court)
- Filing date and arraignment information
- Formal charges filed by prosecutor with statutory citations
- Classification of offenses (felony class A, B, or misdemeanor)
- Defense attorney information (public defender or private counsel)
- Plea entered (guilty, not guilty, nolo contendere)
- Pre-trial motions and rulings
- Trial information (if applicable)
Disposition and Sentencing:
- Final verdict or case outcome
- Conviction date (if applicable)
- Dismissed or nolle prossed charges
- Sentencing details:
- Incarceration terms (length and facility)
- Probation conditions and duration
- Fines, fees, and court costs
- Restitution orders
- Community service requirements
- Treatment program mandates
- Post-conviction appeals and outcomes
- Probation/parole status and violations
Additional Information:
- Active warrants or pending charges
- Protective or restraining orders
- Sex offender registration requirements
- Habitual offender status
- DUI/DWI history
- Related traffic violations
- Domestic violence indicators
- Firearms restrictions
- Diversion program participation
- Sentence modifications or commutations
The comprehensiveness of criminal records varies based on the maintaining agency and the nature of the case. Court records typically contain the most complete documentation of case proceedings, while law enforcement records focus more on arrest and initial charging information. Records maintained by the New Hampshire Department of Corrections emphasize incarceration and supervision details.
Pursuant to New Hampshire RSA 651:5, certain records may be eligible for annulment (expungement) after specified time periods, in which case they would no longer appear in standard criminal record searches.
How Long Does Rockingham County Keep Criminal Records?
Rockingham County maintains criminal records according to retention schedules established by New Hampshire state law and administrative rules. These schedules vary by record type and maintaining agency, with some records preserved permanently while others are retained for defined periods before destruction or archiving.
The New Hampshire Court System follows the records retention policies established by the Administrative Office of the Courts pursuant to Supreme Court Rule 58. Key retention periods include:
- Felony Case Files: Permanently retained for Class A felonies; 20 years after case closure for Class B felonies
- Misdemeanor Case Files: 10 years after case closure
- Violation Level Offenses: 5 years after case closure
- Domestic Violence Cases: 10 years after case closure
- Search Warrant Records: Sealed warrants retained for 7 years; executed warrants follow case file retention
- Grand Jury Records: Permanently retained
- Juvenile Delinquency Records: Until subject reaches age 21, unless extended by court order
The Rockingham County Sheriff's Office and local police departments follow retention schedules established by the New Hampshire Department of State's Division of Archives and Records Management:
- Arrest Records: 20 years after arrest date
- Booking Information: 20 years after booking
- Investigation Files: 20 years after case closure for solved cases; permanently for unsolved major crimes
- Incident Reports: 7 years after creation
- Sex Offender Registration Information: Lifetime for tier III offenders; 25 years for tier II; 10 years for tier I
The Rockingham County Department of Corrections maintains records according to the following schedule:
- Inmate Files: 7 years after final release from custody or supervision
- Booking Records: 20 years after creation
- Disciplinary Reports: 7 years after inmate's release
- Medical Records: 7 years after inmate's release
It is important to note that while physical records may be destroyed according to retention schedules, electronic indices or summary information may be maintained for longer periods. Additionally, records that have been microfilmed or digitized may be retained permanently even after physical copies are destroyed.
The New Hampshire Criminal Records Unit maintains a central repository of criminal history information that is retained according to the following schedule:
- Conviction Records: Permanently maintained unless annulled by court order
- Non-conviction Records: Maintained for 1 year after acquittal or dismissal
- Arrest Records Without Disposition: Maintained for up to 1 year pending receipt of disposition information
Records eligible for annulment under RSA 651:5 may be removed from public access earlier than these retention periods if a court grants an annulment petition. However, certain agencies may retain annulled records for limited law enforcement purposes.