How to Remove an Arrest Record and Mugshot for Free

Reviewed by Joseph Chierotti, CEO, Defamation Defenders · Updated October 2026 · 8 min read

Short answer

You can sometimes remove a mugshot and arrest record for free by getting the record expunged or sealed, asking mugshot sites to remove it (citing your state’s mugshot law if it bans charging for removal), asking the police department to remove its own post, and then using Google’s tools to clear old results. It takes time and persistence, and many sites ignore free requests, which is when paid removal services help.

Key takeaways

Expungement or sealing is the strongest free step, if you qualify.
Many states restrict mugshot websites from charging to remove booking photos.
Police and sheriff’s departments often remove their own posts on request.
Google drops a page once it’s gone; the Refresh Outdated Content tool speeds that up.
Duplicates on several sites are common; remove them all or Google shows the next one.

Table Of Content

Free ways to remove a mugshot and arrest record

Check expungement or sealing

If your charges were dismissed, you were acquitted, or enough time has passed, your state may let you expunge or seal the record. Some states do it automatically under Clean Slate laws.

Contact the posting agency

Ask the police or sheriff’s department to remove the booking photo from its website and Facebook page.

Request removal from mugshot sites

Use each site’s removal form. If your state bans charging for removal, cite the law and attach your court documents.

Clear Google

Once pages are gone, use Google’s Refresh Outdated Content tool for each URL and image.

Check again

Mugshots get re-posted; search your name every few months.

State laws that help

A number of states have passed laws limiting commercial mugshot websites, for example by banning fees for removal or requiring free removal when charges were dismissed or expunged. Others limit how law enforcement posts booking photos on social media. The rules vary widely, so check your state’s law or ask a local attorney.

Want it gone without the runaround?

We remove mugshots from mugshot sites and Google, usually in 7–10 business days, with a firm quote, pay after removal available, a money-back guarantee, and free re-removal if a mugshot site reposts it.

See Mugshot Removal Call 1-800-785-1749

Where free removal falls short

Many mugshot sites ignore free requests or bury the removal process.
Copies spread to multiple sites, and each needs its own request.
Government jail and court sites follow their own rules.
Expungement doesn’t automatically remove copies already published.

Don’t forget court record sites

Legal databases like Justia, Trellis, and UniCourt may list your case too. See our court records removal service and our guide to removing a court case from public record.

Free mugshot removal FAQs

Can I remove my mugshot for free?

Sometimes, by expunging or sealing the record, requesting removal from sites and police pages, and citing state laws against pay-for-removal mugshot sites.

Does expungement remove my mugshot from the internet?

Not automatically. You still need to ask each site to remove it and clear Google.

Are mugshot websites legal?

Generally yes, but many states restrict charging for removal.

How do I get my mugshot off Google?

Remove it from the source site, then use Google’s Refresh Outdated Content tool.

How long does mugshot removal take?

Free requests can take weeks or never get answered; professional removal is usually 7–10 business days.

Get a quote to remove your mugshot

Send us the links where your mugshot appears. We’ll give you a firm quote and a guarantee.

Get My Free Quote Call 1-800-785-1749

Defamation Defenders is an online reputation management company, not a law firm. This article is general information, not legal advice.