La Crosse County Criminal Records
What Is La Crosse County Criminal Records
Criminal records in La Crosse County are official documents maintained by various county agencies that document an individual's interactions with the criminal justice system. These records are created and maintained pursuant to Wisconsin Statutes Chapter 19, which governs public records and property in the state.
Criminal records typically originate when an individual is processed through the La Crosse County criminal justice system. The documentation begins at the point of arrest by the La Crosse County Sheriff's Office or other local law enforcement agencies and continues through court proceedings, potential conviction, and sentencing.
The primary custodians of criminal records in La Crosse County include:
La Crosse County Sheriff's Office
333 Vine Street
La Crosse, WI 54601
(608) 785-9629
La Crosse County Sheriff's Office
La Crosse County Clerk of Courts
333 Vine Street, Room 1200
La Crosse, WI 54601
(608) 785-9590
La Crosse County Clerk of Courts
These records serve multiple purposes within the justice system and broader community, including:
- Providing documentation of criminal proceedings
- Enabling background checks for employment, housing, and other purposes
- Assisting law enforcement in investigations
- Supporting statistical analysis of crime patterns
- Facilitating public safety through transparency
Under Wisconsin's Open Records Law (Wis. Stat. §§ 19.31-19.39), most criminal records are considered public information, though certain exceptions apply to protect privacy and ongoing investigations.
Are Criminal Records Public In La Crosse County
Criminal records in La Crosse County are generally public documents in accordance with Wisconsin's Open Records Law (Wis. Stat. §§ 19.31-19.39). This statute establishes a presumption of complete public access to government records, including criminal records, consistent with the conduct of governmental business.
Members of the public may access most criminal records through various county offices, including:
- Court records through the La Crosse County Clerk of Courts
- Arrest records through the La Crosse County Sheriff's Office
- Incarceration records through jail and prison databases
However, certain limitations and exceptions to public access exist. Pursuant to Wisconsin Statute § 19.36, the following types of criminal records may have restricted access:
- Records related to ongoing investigations
- Juvenile records (with limited exceptions)
- Records sealed by court order
- Certain victim information
- Records where disclosure would endanger public safety
- Expunged records
The Wisconsin Circuit Court Access (WCCA) website provides public access to court records from all 72 Wisconsin counties, including La Crosse County. This resource allows citizens to search for criminal cases by name, case number, or citation number through the Wisconsin Court System case search.
For records not available online, individuals may submit a records request to the appropriate agency. Agencies may charge reasonable fees for searching, copying, and certifying records as permitted under Wis. Stat. § 19.35(3).
How To Look Up Criminal Records In La Crosse County in 2025
La Crosse County residents and other interested parties have multiple methods available to access criminal records in 2025. The county has implemented several systems to facilitate public access to these documents in accordance with Wisconsin's Open Records Law.
To obtain criminal records in La Crosse County, individuals may utilize the following procedures:
Online Access:
- The Wisconsin Circuit Court Access (WCCA) portal, commonly known as CCAP, remains the primary online resource for searching court records, including criminal cases. Users can search by name, case number, or citation number.
- The La Crosse County Sheriff's Office inmate locator provides information about currently incarcerated individuals and recent releases.
- The Wisconsin Department of Corrections offender locator contains information about individuals serving sentences in state facilities.
In-Person Requests:
- Visit the La Crosse County Clerk of Courts office during regular business hours (Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM) to request criminal court records.
- The La Crosse County Sheriff's Office accepts in-person requests for arrest records and other law enforcement documents.
Written Requests:
- Submit a written request to the appropriate agency, clearly identifying the records sought.
- Include contact information and specify the preferred format for receiving the records.
- Be prepared to pay applicable fees for search, copying, and certification services.
Pursuant to Wis. Stat. § 19.35(4), record custodians must respond to requests "as soon as practicable and without delay." Complex requests may require additional processing time, particularly if they involve extensive redaction or review.
How To Find Criminal Records in La Crosse County Online?
La Crosse County provides several digital platforms through which members of the public may access criminal records online. These resources have been established to promote transparency while maintaining compliance with Wisconsin's public records laws.
The primary online resources for accessing La Crosse County criminal records include:
-
Wisconsin Circuit Court Access (WCCA) - This statewide portal, accessible at Wisconsin Court System case search, provides comprehensive access to court records from all Wisconsin counties, including La Crosse. Users can search by name, case number, or citation number to locate criminal case information, including charges, court dates, judgments, and sentencing information.
-
La Crosse County Sheriff's Office Inmate Locator - The Sheriff's Office maintains an online inmate database that allows users to search for current inmates and recently released individuals. This resource provides basic information about incarceration status, charges, and potential release dates.
-
Wisconsin Department of Corrections Offender Locator - For individuals sentenced to state prison, the Wisconsin DOC website offers an offender search function that provides information about current location, offense details, and sentence information.
When using these online resources, users should note the following considerations:
- Information is provided for informational purposes and may not reflect the most current status of a case
- Some case details may be redacted or restricted based on statutory requirements
- The accuracy of information cannot be guaranteed, as noted in disclaimers on the respective websites
- For complete and certified records, direct contact with the appropriate agency may be necessary
Can You Search La Crosse County Criminal Records for Free?
La Crosse County provides several no-cost options for accessing criminal records in accordance with Wisconsin's commitment to government transparency. These free resources allow members of the public to conduct basic searches without incurring fees.
The following free search options are available to the public:
-
Wisconsin Circuit Court Access (WCCA) - This comprehensive online database at Wisconsin Court System case search allows users to search court records from all Wisconsin counties, including La Crosse, at no charge. The system provides case information including filing dates, charges, hearing schedules, and case outcomes.
-
La Crosse County Sheriff's Office Inmate Locator - The online inmate database is freely accessible to the public and provides basic information about individuals currently held in the La Crosse County Jail.
-
Public Access Terminals - Computer terminals are available for public use at the La Crosse County Courthouse (333 Vine Street, La Crosse, WI 54601) during regular business hours. These terminals provide free access to court records.
While basic searches are free, fees may apply in the following circumstances:
- Requests for printed copies of documents (typically $1.25 per page)
- Certified copies of court records ($5.00 per document plus copy fees)
- Extensive record searches requiring staff time (fees vary based on complexity)
- Background checks for employment or housing purposes
Pursuant to Wis. Stat. § 19.35(3), any fees charged must reflect the "actual, necessary and direct cost" of reproduction or transcription of the record, unless otherwise established by law.
What's Included in a La Crosse County Criminal Record?
La Crosse County criminal records contain comprehensive documentation of an individual's interactions with the local criminal justice system. These records are maintained in accordance with Wisconsin Statutes Chapter 59, which governs county record-keeping requirements.
A typical La Crosse County criminal record may include the following components:
- Identifying Information: Full legal name, date of birth, address, and other demographic details
- Arrest Information: Date, location, arresting agency, and circumstances of arrest
- Booking Data: Photographs (mugshots), fingerprints, and processing information
- Charging Documents: Criminal complaints, information, or indictments detailing specific charges
- Court Proceedings: Hearing dates, appearances, plea information, and trial records
- Case Disposition: Outcomes including dismissals, acquittals, or convictions
- Sentencing Information: Penalties imposed, including incarceration, probation, fines, or other sanctions
- Post-Conviction Data: Information about appeals, probation/parole status, and compliance with court orders
The level of detail available may vary depending on the stage of the criminal proceeding and the specific agency maintaining the record. For example, records maintained by the La Crosse County Sheriff's Office may focus on arrest and detention information, while the La Crosse County Clerk of Courts maintains more comprehensive court proceedings documentation.
Certain information may be redacted or restricted from public access pursuant to Wisconsin Statute § 19.36, including:
- Information related to confidential informants
- Juvenile records (with limited exceptions)
- Victim information in sensitive cases
- Records sealed by court order
- Information that would compromise ongoing investigations
What Are the Penalties for a La Crosse County Criminal Trespass Charge?
Criminal trespass charges in La Crosse County are prosecuted under Wisconsin Statute § 943.14, which establishes penalties for unlawfully entering or remaining on property without the consent of the owner or authorized person. The severity of penalties varies based on the specific circumstances of the offense and the defendant's criminal history.
In La Crosse County, criminal trespass is generally classified into the following categories with corresponding penalties:
Misdemeanor Criminal Trespass to Land (Wis. Stat. § 943.13)
- Class B misdemeanor
- Maximum penalty of 90 days imprisonment
- Potential fine up to $1,000
- Possible probation term
Criminal Trespass to Dwelling (Wis. Stat. § 943.14)
- Class A misdemeanor
- Maximum penalty of 9 months imprisonment
- Potential fine up to $10,000
- Possible probation term of up to 2 years
Aggravated Criminal Trespass (involving weapons or threats)
- May be charged as a Class H felony
- Maximum penalty of 6 years imprisonment
- Potential fine up to $10,000
- Extended supervision after release
Additional consequences may include:
- Restitution to property owners for any damages
- Court-ordered no-contact provisions
- Community service requirements
- Impact on employment and housing opportunities
The La Crosse County District Attorney's Office determines specific charges based on case circumstances, and the La Crosse County Sheriff's Office handles enforcement of trespass laws. In cases involving property seizures related to criminal matters, information may be available through the Sheriff Sales (foreclosures) section of the county website.
Individuals facing criminal trespass charges are advised to consult with legal counsel regarding their specific situation, as penalties may be enhanced based on prior convictions or aggravating factors.
How Long Does La Crosse County Keep Criminal Records?
La Crosse County maintains criminal records in accordance with Wisconsin's Public Records Law and the records retention schedules established by the Wisconsin Public Records Board. These retention periods ensure appropriate documentation while balancing administrative needs with public access rights.
Criminal records in La Crosse County are typically retained according to the following guidelines:
Court Records
- Felony case files: 75 years from date of final disposition
- Misdemeanor case files: 20 years from date of final disposition
- Traffic/ordinance violations: 6-10 years from date of final disposition
- Court indices and dockets: Permanent retention
Law Enforcement Records
- Arrest records: 7 years from date of arrest for adults
- Investigation reports: 7 years for misdemeanors, 50 years for felonies
- Incident reports: 7-10 years depending on case type
- Booking photographs and fingerprints: 7 years minimum, longer for serious offenses
Corrections Records
- Jail records: 7 years after release
- Probation/parole records: 7 years after discharge from supervision
These retention periods represent minimum requirements. In practice, many records are maintained for longer periods, particularly those related to serious offenses. Additionally, records that have been digitized may be retained indefinitely in electronic format, even after physical copies have been destroyed.
It is important to note that even after the official retention period has expired, information about criminal cases may remain accessible through various databases, including the Wisconsin Circuit Court Access system maintained by the Wisconsin Court System and offender databases maintained by the Wisconsin Department of Corrections.
Lookup Criminal Records in La Crosse County
Search La Crosse County inmate records
Access La Crosse County court records
Find Wisconsin offender information