Miami-Dade arrest records are official documents created when someone is taken into custody by law enforcement in Miami-Dade County, Florida. These records include names, dates of birth, arrest times, charges, bond amounts, booking locations, and court case numbers. The Miami-Dade County Clerk of Courts manages the main database, which updates nightly to reflect new arrests and case changes. Anyone can search these records online using names, case numbers, or Florida statutes like 784.011 (assault) or 877.03 (disorderly conduct). The system serves attorneys, investigators, journalists, and the general public who need accurate, up-to-date criminal justice information.
How to Search Miami-Dade Arrest Records Online
The primary way to access Miami-Dade arrest records is through the official MDCR Inmate Search tool. This free public portal lets users look up current inmates by first and last name or booking number. Each result shows a photo, booking date and time, list of charges, bond details, scheduled court dates, and housing unit location. The database refreshes continuously as new bookings happen and cases move through the courts. Users can also filter results by date range or charge type. For older records, the Clerk of Courts maintains archived data going back years, available through their criminal justice information system.
What Information Is Included in a Miami-Dade Arrest Record?
Every Miami-Dade arrest record contains key details about the individual and the incident. This includes full legal name, date of birth, driver’s license number (if available), exact time and location of arrest, name and badge number of the arresting officer, specific charges filed, Florida statute citations, booking facility, assigned case number, bond amount set by the court, and next scheduled hearing. Once resolved, the record also notes the final disposition—such as dismissed, guilty plea, or trial verdict. All this information becomes part of the public record unless sealed by court order.
Understanding Bond Amounts and Tiers in Miami-Dade County
Bond amounts in Miami-Dade County follow a tiered structure based on charge severity and prior criminal history. For example, Category 1 (CT1) offenses typically carry a $1,500 bond, CT2 offenses $500, and CT3 offenses $1,000. Aggravated assault on a law enforcement officer under Florida Statute 784.011 often starts with a $3,000 bond due to its seriousness. Misdemeanors like disorderly conduct under Statute 877.03 usually have lower bonds around $1,500. Judges may adjust these amounts during first appearance hearings based on risk factors. The MDCR Inmate Search displays current bond status so users know if bail has been posted or modified.
Recent Example: James Mayorga Booking Details
On November 25, 2023, at 9:27 p.m., James Mayorga was arrested in Dade County and booked into the jail system. He faced two charges: aggravated assault on a law enforcement officer (Florida Statute 784.011) with an initial $3,000 bond, and disorderly conduct (Statute 877.03) with a $1,500 bond. Both charges followed the county’s standard bond schedule. His photo, booking time, charges, bond amounts, and housing unit were immediately uploaded to the MDCR Inmate Search portal. As his case progressed, updates appeared in real time, showing court dates and any changes in custody status.
Accessing Historical Arrest Data: November and December 2021
For researchers and journalists, Miami-Dade County provides downloadable datasets for past months, including November and December 2021. These CSV files list every arrest processed during those periods, with fields for date, charge code, statute, arresting agency, bond amount, housing unit, and release date. The data helps track crime trends, monitor policing patterns, and support academic studies. Each dataset is updated weekly to include post-arrest changes like charge reductions or dismissals. Users can access these files through the Clerk of Courts’ public records portal or partner sites that host archived county data.
Police Records and Incident Reports in Miami-Dade
The Miami-Dade Police Department handles requests for incident reports, accident summaries, and officer-involved investigations. Services operate Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., by appointment only. To request a report, callers must dial 305-476-5423, provide the incident date, location, and brief description, then wait in their vehicle for confirmation. Walk-in service is not available. Detailed instructions and precinct addresses are listed on the department’s website under “Locations and Hours.” Most reports are provided within 3–5 business days, though complex cases may take longer.
MDCR Inmate Search: Real-Time Jail Status Updates
The Miami-Dade Corrections and Rehabilitation (MDCR) Inmate Search offers instant access to jail custody information. Enter a name or booking number to view a profile with photo, booking details, charges, bond status, court schedule, and housing assignment. The system also shows medical or mental health classifications noted at intake and approved visitation times. Because it updates continuously, users see releases, transfers, or court outcomes as they happen. This tool is essential for families, lawyers, and employers verifying someone’s current status in the county jail system.
Criminal Records and Privacy Protections Under Marsy’s Law
The Miami-Dade Clerk of Courts follows Florida’s Marsy’s Law to protect victim privacy in criminal cases. Victims can opt in to keep their personal information hidden from public records. The Clerk provides a brochure explaining how to request confidentiality and a form to redact exempt data under Florida Statute 119.071. Once submitted, requests are processed within 10 business days, and users can track progress online. This ensures sensitive details like addresses or phone numbers aren’t exposed while still allowing public access to non-protected case information.
Case Search: Felony, Misdemeanor, and Civil Filings
The Clerk’s Criminal Justice Information System (CJIS) lets users search felony, misdemeanor, and civil cases by docket number. Results show the charging party, defendant name, filing date, case type, current status, and attached documents like affidavits or plea agreements. Advanced filters allow searches by date range, court division, or statute. All documents are downloadable in PDF format for easy sharing or archival. This system supports legal professionals, researchers, and citizens tracking ongoing or resolved cases in Miami-Dade County.
Notable Case: Former Court Employee Arrested for Embezzlement
In December 2021, a former Miami-Dade County Courts supervisor was arrested for allegedly stealing over $100,000 from the court’s fee-collection system. Between June and November 2021, the employee manipulated electronic payment records to redirect funds to a personal account. Charges included grand theft, fraud, and false statements to a public officer, each carrying up to five years in prison. The case was assigned docket number 2021-CR-00567, with a preliminary hearing set for January 15, 2022. This incident highlighted internal control weaknesses and led to stricter financial audits across county offices.
Contact Information for Miami-Dade Clerk of Courts
For help with arrest records, case searches, or public records requests, contact the Miami-Dade Clerk of Courts. The main office is located at 73 W. Flagler Street, Miami, FL 33130. Phone support is available at 305-275-1155 during business hours (Monday–Friday, 8:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m.). Visit the official website for forms, FAQs, and online services. Staff can assist with technical issues, procedural questions, or locating specific documents. Always call ahead for appointments, as walk-in services are limited.
Frequently Asked Questions About Miami-Dade Arrest Records
People often have questions about how to use Miami-Dade arrest records, what information is public, and how to protect privacy. Below are common inquiries with clear, factual answers based on current Florida law and county procedures.
How long does it take for a new arrest to appear in the MDCR Inmate Search?
New arrests usually appear in the MDCR Inmate Search within minutes of booking. Once an individual is processed at the jail, their photo, charges, bond details, and housing assignment are uploaded to the system. The database refreshes continuously, so families, attorneys, and employers can check status in real time. However, if someone is released quickly—such as after posting bond—their record may only show briefly. For historical searches, the Clerk of Courts archives data by month and year, accessible through their online portal or public records requests.
Can I remove my name from Miami-Dade arrest records?
Arrest records are public unless sealed or expunged by court order. If charges were dropped, dismissed, or resulted in acquittal, you may petition the court to seal or expunge the record under Florida Statute 943.059. This process requires filing forms, paying fees, and attending a hearing. If granted, the record becomes inaccessible to the public but may still be available to law enforcement. The Miami-Dade Clerk’s website provides expungement packets and instructions. Note that convictions generally cannot be removed, though certain non-violent offenses may qualify after waiting periods.
Are juvenile arrest records available in Miami-Dade County?
Juvenile arrest records are confidential under Florida law and not part of the public database. Only law enforcement, courts, schools, and authorized agencies can access them. Parents or legal guardians may request records for their own children through the Miami-Dade Police Department or Juvenile Assessment Center. Sealing or expungement is often automatic at age 21 if no further offenses occurred. Exceptions exist for serious crimes like murder or sexual battery, which may remain accessible under strict conditions. Always consult a juvenile attorney for specific cases.
How do I verify someone’s arrest history for employment or rental purposes?
Employers and landlords can use the MDCR Inmate Search to check current custody status but cannot access full arrest histories without consent. For complete background checks, use Florida’s official site, Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE), which requires fingerprinting and written permission. Private background check companies also offer reports, but they must comply with the Fair Credit Reporting Act. Always inform applicants that a background check will be conducted and obtain signed authorization. False or outdated information must be corrected upon request.
What should I do if I find incorrect information in a Miami-Dade arrest record?
If you spot errors—such as wrong name spelling, incorrect charges, or outdated bond amounts—contact the Miami-Dade Clerk of Courts immediately. Call 305-275-1155 or visit the main office at 73 W. Flagler Street. Provide your case number, correct details, and any supporting documents like court orders or dismissal papers. The Clerk will review and update the record within 5–10 business days. For urgent corrections, such as mistaken identity, request a formal amendment hearing. Keeping records accurate protects your rights and ensures fair treatment in future legal matters.
Can victims block their information from appearing in arrest records?
Yes, under Marsy’s Law, victims of crimes in Florida can request that their personal information be withheld from public arrest records. The Miami-Dade Clerk of Courts provides an opt-in form and brochure explaining the process. Once submitted, names, addresses, and phone numbers are redacted from online databases and court filings. This applies to victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking, and other qualifying offenses. The request is free and processed within 10 days. However, law enforcement and court officials retain access for investigative purposes.
Where can I download bulk arrest data for research or journalism?
Researchers, journalists, and analysts can download monthly arrest datasets from the Miami-Dade Clerk of Courts or partner public records sites. These CSV files include all bookings for a given month, with fields for date, charge, statute, agency, bond, and housing unit. Data for November and December 2021 is currently available, with newer months added weekly. Each file is labeled by year and month for easy sorting. Use this information responsibly, citing sources and respecting privacy. For custom requests, submit a public records application with specific parameters to the Clerk’s office.
Official Website: www.miami-dadeclerk.com | Phone: 305-275-1155 | Address: 73 W. Flagler Street, Miami, FL 33130 | Hours: Mon–Fri, 8:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m.