1>Coral Springs City Criminal History
Coral Springs City Criminal History records document arrests, charges, and court outcomes within this Broward County city. The Coral Springs Police Department creates these records, and the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) stores them in a statewide database. Residents, employers, and legal groups can request these records through local and state channels. This resource explains how the system works, what each database contains, and how to request records in 2026.
Coral Springs Police Department Records
The Coral Springs Police Department creates reports for every arrest, citation, and incident handled by officers. These reports form the foundation of local criminal history data. The department stores reports in a digital system that links to county and state databases.
What Police Reports Include
Each police report contains the name of the person arrested, the date and location of the incident, the charges filed, and the officer’s name. The report also lists witness statements, evidence collected, and the arrest booking number. Reports remain in the department’s system even after the case goes to court.
- Full name and date of birth of the arrested person
- Date, time, and location of the arrest
- Statute number and charge description
- Arresting officer name and badge number
- Booking photo and fingerprint data
- Property or evidence collected
How to Request Local Police Reports
Requesters can ask for police reports by mail, in person, or through the city’s online portal. Each method requires a valid photo ID and a written request. The department charges a fee per page and a higher fee for certified copies.
- Visit the Coral Springs Police Department records window during business hours.
- Fill out a public records request form with the case number or incident date.
- Show a government-issued photo ID.
- Pay the copy fee at the cashier window.
- Pick up the report or wait for it to arrive by mail.
Police Department Hours and Location
The Coral Springs Police Department sits at 2801 Coral Springs Drive, Coral Springs, FL 33065. The records window opens Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. The department closes on federal holidays. Call (954) 344-1800 before visiting to confirm hours and fee amounts.
Florida Statewide Criminal History (FDLE)
The Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) runs the Computerized Criminal History (CCH) system. This system collects arrest data from every Florida law enforcement agency, including Coral Springs. The CCH system creates a single record for each person who has been arrested in Florida.
FDLE CCH Database
The CCH database stores arrest records, charge details, and final court outcomes. Records stay in the database until the person files for expungement or the record meets deletion rules under Florida law. FDLE updates records within 24 to 48 hours of receiving new data from county clerks.
The system allows searches by name, date of birth, and race. A search returns all arrests in Florida that match the person’s identifying details. The database covers more than 20 million records as of 2026.
Florida Criminal History Record Information (CHRI)
CHRI is the legal term for criminal history data stored by FDLE. Florida law under section 943.053 defines who can receive CHRI and how it can be used. Certified CHRI copies carry the FDLE seal and serve as proof of a person’s criminal record for employment, immigration, and adoption.
CHRI includes arrests, charges, dispositions, and sentencing. The record shows whether a person was convicted, acquitted, or had charges dropped. Sealed and expunged records do not appear in CHRI.
Fees and Processing Times
FDLE charges $25 for a name-based search and $24 for a fingerprint-based search. The name-based search returns instant results through the public portal. A certified mail request takes 5 to 7 business days to process. Fingerprint checks at approved locations take 3 to 5 business days.
| Search Type | Fee | Processing Time | Result Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Name-based online (non-certified) | $25 | Instant | Unofficial |
| Name-based mail (certified) | $25 | 5-7 business days | Certified CHRI |
| Fingerprint-based (state) | $24 | 3-5 business days | Certified CHRI |
| Fingerprint-based (FBI national) | $50 | 7-10 business days | Certified CHRI |
Fingerprint-Based vs Name-Based Checks
Fingerprint checks match a person’s fingerprints against the FDLE and FBI databases. These checks offer the highest accuracy because fingerprints are unique. Name-based checks rely on personal details like name and date of birth. Name-based checks can return false matches when two people share similar names.
Florida law requires fingerprint checks for some jobs, including teachers, childcare workers, and law enforcement officers. Most volunteer positions accept name-based checks.
Broward County Court Records
The Broward County Clerk of Courts maintains court records for cases filed in the 17th Judicial Circuit. These records show charges, court dates, plea agreements, verdicts, and sentences. Court records complement police reports by showing the final outcome of each case.
Clerk of Court Records
The Clerk of Courts office in Fort Lauderdale stores paper and electronic records for all criminal cases in Broward County. The clerk offers an online search tool at browardclerk.org. This tool allows users to look up cases by name, case number, or citation number.
Court records include the defendant’s full name, the charges filed by the state, court dates, motions filed, and final rulings. The clerk charges $1 per page for regular copies and $2 per page for certified copies.
Court Case Information
Each court case has a unique case number that begins with the year of filing. The case number follows the format CFYYXXXXXX for felony cases and MMYYXXXXXX for misdemeanor cases. The clerk uses this number to track all documents and hearings in the case.
Court records show whether a person entered a guilty plea, was found guilty at trial, or had charges dismissed. The record also shows probation terms, fines, and any appeals filed after the case ended.
17th Judicial Circuit
The 17th Judicial Circuit covers Broward County and handles all criminal cases for Coral Springs. The circuit includes county court for less serious crimes and circuit court for felonies. Judges rotate between divisions, and each case is assigned to a specific judge who oversees all hearings.
The main courthouse sits at 201 SE 6th Street, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301. Satellite courthouse locations also handle criminal cases in Broward County. Search the clerk’s website for the location hearing your case.
Florida Background Screening Clearinghouse
The Florida Background Screening Clearinghouse streamlines background checks for employers and volunteer organizations. The clearinghouse system, managed by FDLE, stores results so requesters do not need to run new checks for each application.
VECHS Screening
The Volunteer and Employee Criminal History Screening (VECHS) program provides background checks for nonprofits, schools, and healthcare facilities. VECHS results stay in the clearinghouse for five years. Employers can request updated checks without re-fingerprinting the person during that time.
VECHS checks cost $33.95 for the initial screening and $13.95 for each recheck. The clearinghouse website, at flclearinghouse.fdle.state.fl.us, allows registered agencies to request and view results.
Volunteer and Employment Screening
Schools, hospitals, and youth organizations often require criminal history checks. The clearinghouse checks both Florida records and FBI records. Results show arrests, convictions, and pending charges. Employers use these results to make hiring decisions that comply with state law.
Expungement and Sealed Records
Florida law allows people to seal or expunge certain criminal records. Sealed records stay in the database but become hidden from public searches. Expunged records are physically destroyed by FDLE and the courts.
Florida Expungement Process
To expunge a record, the applicant must file a petition with the court that handled the case. The petition must show that the person qualifies under Florida Statute 943.0585. The state attorney must sign off on the petition before the court reviews it.
Qualifying records include arrest records without convictions, dismissed charges, and certain acquittals. The fee for filing an expungement petition is $75. The process takes 6 to 12 months from filing to final order.
Sealed Records
Sealed records remain in the system but only certain agencies can access them. Law enforcement, the courts, and specific licensing boards can view sealed records. The general public cannot see sealed records through standard searches.
Florida Statute 943.059 governs the sealing of criminal history records. A person can seal one felony or two misdemeanors under current law. The court holds a hearing before granting a sealing order.
Eligibility Certificate
The eligibility certificate comes from FDLE and confirms whether a person qualifies to seal or expunge a record. FDLE charges $75 for the certificate. The certificate lists all arrests and dispositions on the person’s record. The applicant attaches this certificate to the court petition.
Records Request Methods
Florida offers three main ways to request criminal history records. Each method fits different needs based on urgency, certification requirements, and budget.
Online Portal
The FDLE public access portal at cchinet.fdle.state.fl.us allows instant name-based searches. Users create an account, enter the subject’s name and date of birth, and pay the $25 fee by credit card. Results appear on screen within seconds. This method works for quick checks but does not provide certified copies.
Mail-In Request
Mail requests go to FDLE at PO Box 1489, Tallahassee, FL 32302. The request package must include a completed form, a copy of the subject’s ID, and a $25 check or money order. FDLE returns certified results by mail within 5 to 7 business days.
In-Person Request
Walk-in requests at FDLE headquarters in Tallahassee provide same-day results in some cases. The office at 2331 Phillips Road serves walk-in customers from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday. Bring a valid photo ID and the $25 fee.
Florida Public Records Law
Florida’s public records law gives citizens the right to see most government records. The law applies to criminal history records held by law enforcement agencies. Some records remain exempt from public disclosure.
Sunshine Law
The Florida Sunshine Law under Chapter 119 of the Florida Statutes requires government agencies to open records to the public. Agencies must respond to records requests within a reasonable time. Most agencies respond within 10 business days.
The law charges only the actual cost of duplication. Agencies cannot charge a fee for the time spent searching for records. Requesters do not need to explain why they want the records.
Open Records Request
An open records request can be made in writing or by email. The request must identify the records sought with enough detail for the agency to locate them. The agency may ask for clarification if the request is too broad.
Government agencies must keep records of all open records requests. These logs are themselves public records and can be requested separately.
Exempt Records
Some criminal records stay exempt from public disclosure. Active investigation records, juvenile records, and sealed records are exempt. Records that reveal the identity of crime victims or confidential informants are also exempt.
Florida law lists specific exemptions in section 119.071. Agencies must cite the exact exemption when denying a records request.
Florida Criminal History for Specific Uses
Different purposes require different types of criminal history checks. Knowing the right type helps avoid delays and rejection.
Employment Background Checks
Florida employers use criminal history checks to screen job applicants. Certain jobs require fingerprint-based checks under Florida law. These include school positions, healthcare roles, and government jobs. General employment often uses name-based checks through third-party screening services.
Adoption and Foster Care
Adoptive parents and foster families must complete a full fingerprint-based criminal history check. The check covers Florida records and FBI records. The screening must be completed within 12 months of the application date.
Immigration Applications
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) requires certified criminal history checks for many immigration benefits. The applicant must obtain a certified FDLE check and an FBI check. These checks must be recent, usually within 6 months of the application.
Florida Criminal History Retention Policy
Florida retains criminal history records for at least 50 years after the arrest. Records older than 50 years may be purged if the person was never convicted. Records with convictions stay in the database permanently unless sealed or expunged.
Juvenile records have a shorter retention period. Most juvenile records are sealed when the person turns 21 if no further offenses occurred.
Florida Criminal History Record Challenge
People who find errors in their criminal history can file a challenge with FDLE. The challenge form requires proof that the record is incorrect. FDLE has 30 days to review the challenge and respond in writing.
If the challenge fails, the person can request a review by the court. A judge can order FDLE to correct the record after a hearing.
Florida Criminal History 2026 Updates
Florida updated its criminal history rules in 2026. The most recent changes include faster processing times for mail requests and expanded online access through the FDLE portal. The 2026 changes also added new exemptions for human trafficking victim records.
The statewide criminal history database saw upgrades in early 2026, including faster search results and improved match accuracy. The FDLE also rolled out a mobile-friendly version of the public access portal in May 2026.
Contact Information for Coral Springs Criminal History Records
Coral Springs Police Department
Address: 2801 Coral Springs Drive, Coral Springs, FL 33065
Phone: (954) 344-1800
Records Window Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Website: www.coralsprings.gov
Broward County Clerk of Courts
Address: 201 SE 6th Street, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301
Phone: (954) 831-6565
Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Website: www.browardclerk.org
Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE)
Address: 2331 Phillips Road, Tallahassee, FL 32308
Phone: (850) 410-8161
Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Website: www.fdle.state.fl.us
Public Portal: cchinet.fdle.state.fl.us
Florida Background Screening Clearinghouse
Phone: (888) 352-2843
Website: flclearinghouse.fdle.state.fl.us
Frequently Asked Questions
The following questions address common concerns about Coral Springs criminal history records. These answers reflect current Florida law as of 2026. Each answer gives direct steps for the most common record requests.
How long does a Coral Springs arrest stay on a criminal record?
Arrests in Coral Springs stay on a person’s criminal record until the person takes legal action to remove them. Florida keeps arrest records for at least 50 years, even if there was no conviction. Sealed records still exist in the system but do not appear in public searches. Expunged records are destroyed by FDLE and the court. The only way to remove a conviction from a record is through a governor’s pardon or a court order after a successful challenge.
Can someone request a criminal history check on another person in Florida?
Florida law allows employers, licensing agencies, and volunteer organizations to request criminal history checks on other people with proper consent. The subject must sign a written release form before the check runs. Private citizens cannot run official FDLE checks on other people without written consent. The Florida public access portal requires the subject’s date of birth and other identifying details, which limits random searches.
What is the difference between a Florida name-based and fingerprint-based check?
A name-based check searches records by matching the person’s name, date of birth, and other details. These checks can return false matches when two people share similar names. Fingerprint-based checks match unique fingerprints against the database, which removes name confusion. Florida requires fingerprint checks for certain jobs, including teachers and law enforcement. Most volunteer positions accept name-based checks.
How can a person seal or expunge a Coral Springs criminal record?
The process starts with an eligibility certificate from FDLE. The applicant pays $75 and submits a request with fingerprints. FDLE reviews the record and issues a certificate if the person qualifies. The applicant then files a petition with the Broward County court that handled the case. A judge holds a hearing before granting the sealing or expungement order. The full process takes 6 to 12 months.
Are Coral Springs police reports free to view in person?
Police reports are not free in Florida. The Coral Springs Police Department charges a fee per page for regular copies and a higher fee for certified copies. The amount depends on the length of the report. The department waives fees for some requests, such as those from crime victims or news media. Call the records window before visiting to confirm the current fee schedule.
What happens if a criminal history record shows incorrect information?
The person can file a challenge with FDLE using the official challenge form. The form requires proof that the record is wrong, such as court documents showing a dismissal. FDLE has 30 days to review the challenge and respond. If FDLE denies the challenge, the person can ask the court to review the case. A judge can order FDLE to correct the record after a hearing.
Does a Florida criminal history record show arrests from other states?
The Florida CCH database only contains arrests that occurred in Florida. It does not include arrests from other states. The FBI national database includes arrests from all U.S. states, but it requires a fingerprint-based check. People who need a full U.S. record should request both the FDLE check and the FBI check. The FBI check costs $18 more than the state-only check.