Search South Bend Arrest Records
South Bend arrest records are available through the South Bend Police Department, the St. Joseph County Sheriff's Department, and state-level tools. With a population of about 104,000, South Bend is the largest city in St. Joseph County and generates a steady volume of arrest data each year. You can request police reports through the city's APRA portal, search the county jail roster, and look up court records tied to arrests. Indiana's Access to Public Records Act sets the rules for how requests are handled, including response deadlines and fees.
South Bend Quick Facts
South Bend Police Department Records
The South Bend Police Department is headquartered at 701 W. Sample St., South Bend, IN 46601. Chief Scott Ruszkowski has served as the 62nd Police Chief since October 1, 2015. His family has deep roots in the department. His brother, father, and grandfather were all South Bend Police officers. Chief Ruszkowski has said his number one priority is people: "We're here for the people and because of the people. Our want is to do no harm. Our community is our family."
The SBPD homepage is shown below.
The site provides links to the records bureau, public records requests, and department contacts.
The Records Bureau handles all police report requests. You can reach the bureau at (574) 235-9212. Hours are Monday through Friday, 7 AM to 11 PM. On observed city holidays, hours run 9 AM to 5 PM. The bureau is closed on Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day. Saturdays are open for impound releases only, 8 AM to noon. Sundays are closed.
The records bureau page shows what services are available and how to file a request.
From here you can find contact numbers and instructions for different types of records.
South Bend Public Records Requests
To request arrest records or other public records in South Bend, you must complete and submit the city's online APRA form at southbendin.gov/apra. After June 1, 2024, only electronic submissions using the city's online form are accepted. In-person requests receive acknowledgment within 24 hours. Written requests by email, fax, or mail get a response within seven days.
The APRA request portal is shown below.
All persons are eligible to submit a request, including individuals, corporations, partnerships, and government entities.
Submitting a request is free. Production of records may incur fees. Audio and video files like body camera footage may significantly delay your receipt depending on the length and number of files requested. The city is not required to create records that do not already exist. You can call 311 or (574) 235-9241 if you need help with the online form.
The FAQ page for South Bend public records has more details on the process.
Common questions cover eligibility, response times, and the types of records you can request.
Note: Not all requests can be granted, as exceptions apply under Indiana law for investigatory records and other protected categories.
St. Joseph County Jail Records
The St. Joseph County Sheriff's Department is located at 401 W. Sample Street, South Bend, IN 46601. The records division can be reached at 574-235-9321. Hours are Monday through Friday, 8 AM to 4:30 PM. The fee for records is $5 for the first page and $1 for each additional page.
The St. Joseph County Clerk's Office at 101 S. Main Street, South Bend, IN 46601 manages court filings. You can call them at 574-235-9635. The St. Joseph County Daily Log shows incident types, locations, and dispositions for recent activity. The INjail portal lets you search current inmates in the county jail.
South Bend Court Case Lookup
Criminal cases from South Bend arrests are filed in St. Joseph County Superior Court. Use MyCase to search court records for free. Enter a name or case number. No account needed. The ISP criminal history service provides statewide checks for $15 per name.
Under Indiana Code 35-38-9, some South Bend arrest records can be sealed through expungement. If arrested but never charged, you may file a petition after one year. Misdemeanor convictions may qualify after five years. Not every case qualifies. Contact the St. Joseph County court clerk or an attorney for guidance.
Note: ISP results depend on how well each county reports data to the state system.
St. Joseph County Arrest Records
South Bend is the county seat of St. Joseph County. All arrests in the city feed into the county court and jail systems. For full county-level details visit the St. Joseph County page.