Bulverde Arrest Records
Are Arrest Records Public in Bulverde, Texas?
Arrest records are public documents in Bulverde, Texas, pursuant to the Texas Public Information Act (Texas Government Code Chapter 552). This legislation establishes that information collected, assembled, or maintained by governmental bodies is presumed to be open to the public unless specifically exempted by law. Law enforcement agencies in Bulverde maintain arrest records as part of their official duties, and these records are generally accessible to members of the public upon proper request.
The Texas Public Information Act serves to promote transparency in government operations and ensures citizens' right to access public information. Under this act, governmental bodies must promptly release requested information unless there is a compelling reason to withhold it as specified by statutory exceptions. Arrest records fall within the category of public information that citizens have the legal right to access, subject to certain privacy protections and exemptions outlined in the statute.
How to Look Up Bulverde Arrest Records in 2025
Members of the public seeking Bulverde arrest records in 2025 may utilize several official channels to obtain this information. The City of Bulverde and Comal County maintain systems for public record access in compliance with state transparency laws:
In-Person Requests at Law Enforcement Agencies: Citizens may submit requests directly to the Bulverde Police Department located at 30360 Cougar Bend, Bulverde, TX 78163. Office hours are Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Telephone: (830) 438-3612.
Comal County Sheriff's Office: Records may also be available through the Comal County Sheriff's Office at 3005 W. San Antonio St., New Braunfels, TX 78130. Telephone: (830) 620-3400.
Online Public Information Requests: The City of Bulverde provides an electronic system for public information requests through their official website. Requestors must complete the appropriate form specifying the records sought.
Bulverde Municipal Court: Court records related to arrests may be accessed through the Municipal Court at 30360 Cougar Bend, Bulverde, TX 78163. Telephone: (830) 438-3612.
Pursuant to Texas Government Code § 552.261, governmental bodies may charge reasonable fees for providing copies of public information. Fee schedules are established in accordance with rules prescribed by the Office of the Attorney General.
Contents of a Bulverde Arrest Record
Standard arrest records maintained by Bulverde law enforcement agencies contain specific information as mandated by Texas state law. These records typically include the following elements:
- Full legal name of the arrested individual
- Date of birth and demographic information
- Physical description and booking photograph ("mugshot")
- Date, time, and location of the arrest
- Statutory charges filed at the time of arrest
- Arresting agency and officer identification
- Booking information, including processing date and time
- Bond or bail amount, if applicable
- Case disposition information, when available
- Fingerprint records and identification numbers
- Warrant information, if the arrest was pursuant to a warrant
It should be noted that certain information may be redacted from public arrest records in accordance with Texas Government Code § 552.108, which provides exceptions for information that could interfere with law enforcement proceedings or endanger individuals. Additionally, information related to juveniles is subject to stricter confidentiality requirements under Texas Family Code Chapter 58.
Expungement of Arrest Records in Bulverde
Texas law provides mechanisms for the expungement (expunction) of arrest records under specific circumstances. Chapter 55 of the Texas Code of Criminal Procedure governs the expungement process in Bulverde and throughout Texas. Individuals may petition for expungement if their situation meets one of the following criteria:
- The person was arrested but never charged with a crime
- Charges were filed but subsequently dismissed
- The person was acquitted of the charges (found "not guilty")
- The person was convicted but subsequently pardoned
- The person completed a pre-trial diversion program that qualifies for expungement
- The statute of limitations for the offense has expired without charges being filed
The expungement process requires filing a petition with the district court in Comal County. Petitioners must provide detailed information about the arrest and subsequent proceedings. Upon approval, an expungement order directs all agencies maintaining records of the arrest to destroy or return all records and files related to the expunged arrest.
An alternative to expungement is an order of nondisclosure, which seals records from public view but allows access by law enforcement and certain governmental agencies. This option is available to individuals who successfully completed deferred adjudication for certain offenses, as specified in Texas Government Code Chapter 411.
Individuals seeking expungement or nondisclosure should be aware that these processes involve filing fees, court costs, and potentially complex legal requirements. The Comal County District Clerk's Office, located at 150 N. Seguin Ave., Suite 304, New Braunfels, TX 78130, processes expungement petitions. Telephone: (830) 221-1270.
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