Remove Arrest Record From Google Search
An arrest is not a conviction. But Google doesn’t know that — and neither do the employers, landlords, or dates who search for your name. An arrest record that lingers on page one can cost you jobs, relationships, and opportunities long after the matter was resolved. Here’s how to remove it from Google, or at minimum, make sure it doesn’t define you.
Can You Actually Remove an Arrest Record From Google?
The honest answer: sometimes. It depends on:
- The source of the record — government databases, news archives, or third-party aggregators
- Your legal standing — was the charge dismissed, acquitted, or expunged?
- Google’s specific removal criteria — which are narrow and prioritize certain content types
In general, Google will not remove content simply because it’s embarrassing or outdated. But if the underlying record has been legally expunged or sealed, you have stronger grounds.
Step 1: Get Your Record Expunged or Sealed
If your charges were dismissed, you were found not guilty, or you completed diversion programs, petition the court for expungement. This is the foundation of your case — a legal document that says the record should not exist. Bring this to every removal request and Google removal form.
Step 2: Request Removal from the Source
Start with where the content lives. Submit removal requests to:
- News websites that published arrest reports (politely, with expungement documentation)
- Mugshot aggregation sites (see our mugshot suppression guide)
- Background check sites like BeenVerified, Instant Checkmate, Radaris
- Circuit court and county clerk websites if they host the records directly
Step 3: Submit a Google Removal Request
If your record is legally expunged, use Google’s outdated content removal tool and removal request system. Include your expungement order. Google may delist pages that violate their policies or outdated information that’s been superceded by legal changes.
Step 4: Suppress the Remaining Results
For content that can’t be removed — which is most of it — suppression is the answer. Build and rank positive content that outranks the arrest record pages:
- Fully optimized personal LinkedIn profile
- Personal website with your name prominently featured
- Guest articles and press releases highlighting your professional life
- Community involvement and local media mentions
- Professional directory citations
Step 5: Monitor for New Mentions
Set up Google Alerts for your full name + “arrest” and variations. New articles or database updates can re-surface old records. A professional ORM retainer includes continuous monitoring and rapid response.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does expungement automatically remove my record from Google?
No. Expungement is a court order that affects your legal record. It doesn’t force private websites or Google to delete cached or republished content. But it does strengthen your removal requests.
Will news websites remove my arrest record?
Some will, especially with expungement documentation. Large outlets are less likely. Many will update the article to note the outcome if you contact them.
How long does arrest record suppression take?
Initial movement in 30–60 days. Significant suppression of page-one results in 3–6 months.
What if I wasn’t arrested but was simply mentioned in a crime article?
The same strategy applies — direct outreach to the source where viable, suppression otherwise. Your attorney can also send correction or removal demands if the article is inaccurate.
Related: Suppress Mugshot Online · Fix Negative Search Results · Individual ORM Hub
