Overcoming Hurdles in the Mugshot Removal Process
Mugshots can be a result of an arrest that happened for a variety of reasons. Whether it was a minor offence or a serious one, there is a chance that your mugshot is available on the internet for anyone to access. If you have ever searched for someone’s name online, you might have come across their mugshot. Fortunately, removing your mugshot is possible. In this blog post, we’ll dive deep into the basics of mugshot removal services and how it works.
What is a Mugshot?
A mugshot is a photograph taken by law enforcement agencies when someone is arrested. These photographs include the person’s face and usually a side view, which enables authorities to identify the person accurately. Once taken, mugshots are often included in publicly available databases. From there, third-party websites can access these pictures and post them on their sites.
How Do Mugshots End Up Online?
Once mugshots are taken, they become public record. Therefore, government agencies like police departments and sheriffs’ offices have the rights to the photographs. While the information is intended for public safety reasons, mugshots often get abused by third-party websites that charge people to remove their pictures. In some cases, the websites even repost photos that have already been taken down.
Why Should You Remove Your Mugshot?
Having your mugshot on the internet can be a source of humiliation and embarrassment, even if you were not convicted of any crime. It’s a good idea to keep your records clean, especially when you’re seeking employment. Employers often conduct background checks and may be hesitant to hire someone whose mugshot is readily available on the internet.
How Can You Get Your Mugshot Removed?
It’s important to note that you cannot remove your mugshot from government sites. However, third-party websites that post these photos can be approached to get the photo down. If you see your mugshot on a website, find out if they have an opt-out policy. Most reputable sites that post mugshots have an option that lets you remove your photo for free. Most of the time, you need to provide proof that the charges against you have been dropped or that you were not convicted. For sites that do not have an opt-out policy, you can reach out to them via email or phone to request that your photo be taken down.
How to Avoid Getting Your Mugshot Online?
Some people choose to remove their mugshot immediately upon posting to avoid it being picked up by third-party sites. You can choose to work with a mugshot removal company that specializes in removing these photographs. These companies often monitor the internet for your mugshot and have the necessary resources to contact various websites to have your image removed. Alternatively, you can have your arrest records expunged, which means that they will no longer be public record.
Conclusion:
Mugshots can have long-lasting effects, even if you were never convicted of any manner. The availability of these images online can cause embarrassment and hinder opportunities for you in the future. By understanding the basics of mugshot removal, you have agency over your personal information and image. While it is impossible to remove your mugshot from a government-maintained website, you can initiate steps towards taking down your photo from third-party sites. Furthermore, you can work with specialized companies to regularly monitor the internet and ensure that your mugshot does not appear online.