Mugshots published by commercial websites can follow someone for years, even after charges are dropped. Many states now restrict these sites, and there are practical steps that work.
If charges were dropped or the record has been sealed or expunged, you have much stronger grounds. Get the court paperwork that shows it.
Many states require mugshot sites to remove photos for free on request, especially after a dismissal or expungement. Ask in writing and include your documentation.
In several states charging for mugshot removal is illegal, and paid removals often reappear on related sites. If a site demands payment, that is a red flag.
Once a page is removed or changed, ask Google to refresh it with its outdated content tool. Google also treats mugshot sites differently from news in its rankings.
Accurate reporting about an arrest is protected. Some publishers will update a story or limit its visibility after a dismissal, if asked politely with documentation.
Official records are generally public at the source, unless sealed or expunged. The realistic target is the commercial copies and the search results.
Court records themselves are public, but the copies that rank for your name often are not untouchable. Here is what can realistically be done.
Read moreHow to opt out of Spokeo, Whitepages, BeenVerified and other people-search sites, remove your details from Google, and keep them from coming back.
Read morePersonal search results follow you into every meeting and introduction. What can be done about them.
Read moreTell us what you are dealing with. We will tell you honestly what can come down, and there is no charge unless it does.