Berkeley County Criminal Records
What Is Berkeley County Criminal Records
Berkeley County criminal records are official government documents that chronicle an individual's interactions with the criminal justice system within Berkeley County, South Carolina. These records are maintained pursuant to South Carolina Code § 30-4-30, which establishes requirements for public records maintenance and access. Criminal records encompass a comprehensive timeline of a person's criminal history, from initial arrest through final case disposition.
Criminal records in Berkeley County typically include several distinct categories:
- Arrest Records: Documentation of when an individual was taken into custody by law enforcement, including the Berkeley County Sheriff's Office or municipal police departments
- Court Records: Official proceedings and outcomes from Berkeley County Magistrate Court, Circuit Court, and Family Court
- Incarceration Records: Information regarding detention in the Hill-Finklea Detention Center or state correctional facilities
- Probation/Parole Records: Documentation of supervision following release from incarceration
The distinction between arrest and conviction records is significant. Arrest records merely indicate that an individual was taken into custody on suspicion of criminal activity, while conviction records confirm that the individual was found guilty of specific charges through court proceedings. According to the South Carolina Judicial Branch, both types of records may be accessible to the public with certain limitations.
Criminal offenses in Berkeley County are categorized as either felonies or misdemeanors:
- Felonies: Serious crimes punishable by imprisonment exceeding one year, such as murder, armed robbery, or trafficking controlled substances
- Misdemeanors: Less severe offenses typically punishable by fines or imprisonment of less than one year, including simple assault, petty theft, or public intoxication
Adult criminal records in Berkeley County are generally accessible to the public, while juvenile records (individuals under 18) are typically sealed under South Carolina Code § 63-19-2010 to protect the privacy and future prospects of young offenders. Exceptions exist for violent offenses or when juveniles are tried as adults.
The primary agencies maintaining criminal records in Berkeley County include:
Berkeley County Sheriff's Office
223 North Live Oak Drive
Moncks Corner, SC 29461
(843) 719-4412
Berkeley County Sheriff's Office
Berkeley County Clerk of Court
300-B California Avenue
Moncks Corner, SC 29461
(843) 719-4400
Berkeley County Clerk of Court
South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED)
4400 Broad River Road
Columbia, SC 29210
(803) 737-9000
South Carolina Law Enforcement Division
Are Criminal Records Public In Berkeley County
Criminal records in Berkeley County are generally considered public information under the South Carolina Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), codified in South Carolina Code § 30-4-10 et seq. This statute establishes the presumption that government records, including criminal records, should be accessible to citizens to ensure transparency in governmental operations.
The South Carolina FOIA specifically states that "any person has a right to inspect or copy any public record of a public body" except as otherwise provided by law. Criminal records fall under this provision, making most adult criminal records accessible to the public. However, certain exceptions and limitations apply to protect privacy interests and ongoing investigations.
Records that are typically available to the public include:
- Adult conviction records
- Court proceedings and case dispositions
- Booking information and mugshots
- Sex offender registry information
- Incarceration records
Conversely, several categories of criminal records remain restricted from public access:
- Active criminal investigations, as disclosure could impede law enforcement efforts
- Records sealed by court order, including expunged records
- Juvenile records (with limited exceptions)
- Records containing sensitive personal information such as Social Security numbers or medical information
- Grand jury proceedings
The Berkeley County Clerk of Court maintains court records in accordance with South Carolina Code § 14-17-510, which mandates that clerks "shall have custody of all books, papers, and records of the court." While these records are presumptively public, access may be limited by specific statutory provisions or court orders.
Law enforcement agencies in Berkeley County, including the Sheriff's Office, maintain arrest records and investigative files. Under current South Carolina law, agencies may withhold certain information if disclosure would "harm the agency by: (1) disclosing identity of informants not otherwise known; (2) the premature release of information to be used in a prospective law enforcement action; (3) disclosing investigatory techniques not otherwise known outside the government; (4) by endangering the life, health, or property of any person; or (5) disclosing any contents of intercepted wire, oral, or electronic communications not otherwise disclosed during a trial."
Individuals seeking access to criminal records in Berkeley County should be aware that while the presumption favors disclosure, practical limitations and statutory exceptions may restrict access to certain information.
How To Look Up Criminal Records In Berkeley County in 2026
Berkeley County residents and interested parties may access criminal records through several established channels. The process varies depending on the type of record sought and the maintaining agency. Under current law, the following methods are available for criminal record searches:
In-Person Requests at the Clerk of Court:
- Visit the Berkeley County Clerk of Court during regular business hours (Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM).
- Complete a records request form, providing specific information about the case or individual.
- Present valid government-issued photo identification.
- Pay applicable search and copy fees ($0.25 per page for copies).
- For certified copies, additional fees apply ($5.00 per document).
Berkeley County Clerk of Court
300-B California Avenue
Moncks Corner, SC 29461
(843) 719-4400
Berkeley County Clerk of Court
Sheriff's Office Records Requests:
- Visit the Berkeley County Sheriff's Office Records Division during business hours (Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM).
- Complete a records request form specifying the information sought.
- Provide identification and pay applicable fees.
- For incident reports, a $5.00 fee typically applies.
Berkeley County Sheriff's Office
223 North Live Oak Drive
Moncks Corner, SC 29461
(843) 719-4412
Berkeley County Sheriff's Office
Mail Requests:
- Download and complete the appropriate records request form from the agency website.
- Include a self-addressed stamped envelope.
- Enclose a check or money order for applicable fees.
- Mail to the appropriate agency address.
- Allow 5-10 business days for processing.
State-Level Criminal History Checks:
For comprehensive criminal history information, the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) maintains the central repository for criminal records throughout the state, including Berkeley County. Pursuant to South Carolina Code § 23-3-120, SLED is authorized to disseminate criminal history information to eligible requestors.
- Visit the SLED CATCH (Citizens Access to Criminal Histories) website.
- Create an account or log in as a guest.
- Enter the subject's full name and date of birth.
- Pay the required fee ($25 per record check).
- Receive results electronically or by mail.
South Carolina Law Enforcement Division
4400 Broad River Road
Columbia, SC 29210
(803) 737-9000
South Carolina Law Enforcement Division
When requesting criminal records, members of the public should provide as much identifying information as possible, including full name, date of birth, and case numbers if available. This helps ensure accurate results and reduces processing time.
How To Find Criminal Records in Berkeley County Online?
Berkeley County offers several online resources for accessing criminal records, providing convenient alternatives to in-person requests. These digital platforms vary in scope and functionality, with each offering access to specific types of criminal record information.
Berkeley County Public Index:
The South Carolina Judicial Branch maintains a public index that includes Berkeley County court records. This searchable database provides case information for Circuit Court, Family Court, and Magistrate Court cases.
- Visit the South Carolina Judicial Branch Public Index.
- Select "Berkeley" from the county dropdown menu.
- Choose the appropriate court type (Circuit, Family, or Magistrate).
- Search by name, case number, or filing date.
- Review basic case information, including charges, hearing dates, and disposition.
The Public Index provides limited information and does not include complete case files or documents. Court documents must typically be requested in person from the Clerk of Court.
Berkeley County Detention Center Inmate Search:
The Berkeley County Sheriff's Office maintains an online inmate search tool for individuals currently detained at the Hill-Finklea Detention Center.
- Access the Berkeley County Sheriff's Office website.
- Navigate to the "Detention Center" section.
- Select "Inmate Search."
- Enter the individual's name or booking number.
- View booking information, charges, bond amounts, and next court date.
This database only includes current inmates and does not provide historical incarceration records or case dispositions.
South Carolina SLED CATCH System:
For comprehensive criminal history information, the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) offers the CATCH (Citizens Access to Criminal Histories) online portal. This fee-based service provides statewide criminal history information, including records from Berkeley County.
- Visit the SLED CATCH website.
- Create an account or proceed as a guest user.
- Enter the subject's full name and date of birth.
- Pay the required fee ($25 per search).
- Receive immediate access to available criminal history information.
SLED CATCH provides conviction data, arrest information (within the past three years), and pending charges. The system does not include juvenile records, expunged cases, or certain restricted information.
South Carolina Sex Offender Registry:
The South Carolina Sex Offender Registry, maintained by SLED pursuant to South Carolina Code § 23-3-430, provides information about registered sex offenders residing in Berkeley County.
- Access the South Carolina Sex Offender Registry.
- Search by name, address, city, county, or zip code.
- View offender information, including photograph, address, conviction details, and registration status.
This registry is updated regularly and provides community notification regarding registered sex offenders in compliance with state law.
When using online resources, users should note that digital records may not be comprehensive or current. For the most accurate and complete information, direct contact with the maintaining agency may be necessary.
Can You Search Berkeley County Criminal Records for Free?
Berkeley County residents and members of the public have several options for accessing criminal records without charge, though certain limitations apply. Under the South Carolina Freedom of Information Act (S.C. Code § 30-4-30), public bodies may establish and collect reasonable fees for the search, retrieval, and redaction of records, but inspection of records is generally available without cost.
Free In-Person Record Inspection:
The following locations offer free on-site inspection of criminal records during regular business hours:
Berkeley County Clerk of Court
300-B California Avenue
Moncks Corner, SC 29461
(843) 719-4400
Berkeley County Clerk of Court
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Visitors may review court files and dockets without charge, though identification is required, and staff assistance may be limited based on availability. While inspection is free, copying fees apply ($0.25 per page) if printed records are needed.
Berkeley County Law Library
300 California Avenue
Moncks Corner, SC 29461
(843) 719-4406
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
The law library provides public access terminals for searching court records and legal research. Staff cannot provide legal advice but can assist with navigating available resources.
Free Online Resources:
Several digital platforms offer free access to limited criminal record information:
-
South Carolina Judicial Branch Public Index: This free online database provides basic case information for Berkeley County courts, including charges, hearing dates, and case status. The system does not include document images or complete case files.
-
Berkeley County Sheriff's Office Inmate Search: The Sheriff's Office website offers a free inmate lookup tool showing current detainees at the Hill-Finklea Detention Center, including booking information and charges.
-
South Carolina Sex Offender Registry: The state sex offender registry provides free access to information about registered sex offenders residing in Berkeley County, including photographs, addresses, and offense details.
-
Berkeley County Sheriff's Office Daily Bulletin: The Sheriff's Office publishes a daily bulletin of recent arrests and incidents, available on their website without charge.
Limitations of Free Record Searches:
While free options exist, they have notable limitations:
- Free online resources typically provide only basic information without supporting documents
- In-person inspection requires travel to the courthouse during business hours
- Staff assistance for free searches may be limited
- Comprehensive criminal history information is not available without payment
- Records may not be consolidated across different agencies or jurisdictions
For more comprehensive criminal history information, the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) CATCH system requires a $25 fee per search. Similarly, certified copies of court documents from the Clerk of Court incur fees ($5.00 per certification plus copying costs).
What's Included in a Berkeley County Criminal Record?
Berkeley County criminal records contain comprehensive information documenting an individual's interactions with the criminal justice system. The content varies based on the record type and maintaining agency, but typically includes several key components:
Identifying Information:
- Full legal name and known aliases
- Date of birth and age
- 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
- Booking number and processing details
- Initial charges filed (including statute numbers)
- Bail or bond amount and status
- Detention facility information
- Arresting agency case number
- Incident report details
Court Case Information:
- Court case number and filing date
- Court of jurisdiction (Magistrate, Circuit, or Family Court)
- Assigned judge
- Formal charges filed by the prosecutor
- Statute citations and offense classifications (felony/misdemeanor)
- Plea information
- Attorney representation details
- Hearing dates and proceedings
- Motions filed and rulings
- Evidence presented
Disposition and Sentencing:
- Verdict (guilty, not guilty, dismissed, etc.)
- Conviction date (if applicable)
- Sentence details:
- Incarceration length and facility
- Probation terms and conditions
- Fines and court costs
- Restitution requirements
- Community service obligations
- Treatment program mandates
- Appeal information (if applicable)
- Probation/parole status and violations
- Sentence completion date
Additional Information:
- Active warrants or pending charges
- Protective or restraining orders
- Sex offender registration requirements
- Domestic violence indicators
- DUI/DWI history
- Traffic violations connected to criminal cases
- Prior criminal history references
- Probation/parole officer assignment
- Post-conviction relief petitions
- Expungement or record sealing information
The Berkeley County Clerk of Court maintains court records in accordance with South Carolina Code § 14-17-510, which establishes the clerk's responsibility for preserving all court documents. These records are organized by case number and maintained in both physical and electronic formats.
Law enforcement records, including arrest reports and booking information, are maintained by the Berkeley County Sheriff's Office and municipal police departments. These agencies follow record-keeping standards established by the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) and the South Carolina Department of Archives and History.
It should be noted that certain information may be redacted from publicly accessible records, including Social Security numbers, financial account information, and details regarding minor victims. Additionally, expunged records and sealed juvenile cases are not included in standard criminal record searches.
How Long Does Berkeley County Keep Criminal Records?
Berkeley County maintains criminal records according to retention schedules established by the South Carolina Department of Archives and History under the authority of South Carolina Code § 30-1-90. These schedules vary by document type and severity of offense, with more serious crimes warranting longer retention periods.
Court Records Retention:
The Berkeley County Clerk of Court preserves criminal case files according to the following general guidelines:
- Felony Cases: Permanent retention for serious felonies including murder, criminal sexual conduct, and armed robbery
- Other Felonies: 15 years after case closure
- Misdemeanors: 10 years after case closure
- Traffic Offenses: 3-5 years after case closure
- Domestic Violence: 15 years after case closure
- Juvenile Records: Until the subject reaches age 21, unless ordered sealed or destroyed earlier by court order
- Court Indices and Dockets: Permanent retention
Law Enforcement Records Retention:
The Berkeley County Sheriff's Office and municipal police departments typically follow these retention periods:
- Incident Reports: 5 years for minor incidents; 10 years for major incidents
- Arrest Records: 10 years after the arrest date
- Investigative Files:
- Unsolved homicides and sexual assaults: Permanent retention
- Solved major crimes: 30 years after case closure
- Other solved crimes: 5-10 years after case closure
- Booking Photos and Fingerprints: 10 years for misdemeanors; permanent for felonies
- Body/Dash Camera Footage: 30-90 days for non-evidentiary footage; until case disposition plus applicable retention period for evidentiary footage
Detention Center Records:
- Inmate Files: 10 years after release
- Booking Records: 10 years after creation
- Jail Logs: 5 years after creation
Probation and Parole Records:
- Supervision Files: 5 years after supervision ends
- Violation Reports: 10 years after creation
It is important to note that while records may be retained according to these schedules, their accessibility to the public may be restricted by various statutes and court orders. Additionally, technological limitations may affect the ease of retrieving older records, particularly those that have not been digitized.
Expungement provides an exception to these retention schedules. Under South Carolina Code § 17-22-950, when a criminal record is expunged, all evidence of the arrest and charges must be destroyed by all agencies possessing such records. However, non-public retention of limited information is permitted for law enforcement purposes.
The South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) maintains the central repository for criminal history information in the state and retains records according to state and federal guidelines, generally keeping felony conviction records permanently and other records for varying periods based on offense severity.