Requests for reports and records can be obtained by telephone, US Mail, and in person at the Sheriff’s Office. There is a reasonable charge for obtaining records. See the Records Fees page for the fee schedule. Time spent doing research will also be charged dependant on the amount of time required.
Open Records Requests:
We are not accepting record requests by e-mail, you will be required to submit your request by mail or personal drop off at the Sheriff’s Office. (240 1st St NE PO Box 260. Primghar, IA 51245)
We require a $ 50.00 deposit to begin the research for the material you are requesting. After collecting the materials, we will calculate the time and expense required and then make the necessary refund or billing.
We accept checks or you could bring in cash, we do not accept card payments.
**NOTE: We will not release any documents, reports, videos, pictures, etc., of cases currently under investigation or are in the process of being adjudicated.
Military Records Check:
Requests made by the armed forces can be faxed directly to us or the local recruiter can bring them.
Background Checks:
The O’Brien County Sheriffs Office can provide a criminal record check on persons arrested by our office or incarcerated in our jail. It does not include juvenile records or traffic records dispositions (which may be obtained from the Iowa Department of Transportation or Juvenile Court ) nor any other agency. We suggest you check with other agencies in this area for possible additional information. This criminal records check does not include disposition information on any of the charges. It simply states that the individual was arrested and/or jailed. We caution your use of this information without full court disclosure on the disposition of each charge.
If you are in need of a statewide Iowa Criminal History Record check, you will need to contact the Division of Criminal Investigation in Des Moines. DCI accepts online application and payment for criminal history record checks. The Internet address is: https://dps.iowa.gov or call (515) 725-
Accident / Incident Reports:
- Paper copies of the reports are available upon request in person, or by mail to the parties involved in the accident or incident. No faxed requests will be accepted. Mailed requests require a self-
addressed stamped envelope for return. No charge to involved parties - Attorneys, insurance companies and other cost of $5.00 (cash or check only)
Payment should be made either in cash or check payable to O’Brien County Sheriff’s Office.