Glades County criminal history records show arrest data, court case outcomes, and conviction details for people who had contact with the criminal justice system in Moore Haven and across this small Florida county. These records help employers, landlords, gun sellers, and regular citizens check if someone has a criminal past.
The Clerk of Courts office in Moore Haven keeps all local court papers. The Florida Department of Law Enforcement, also called FDLE, keeps statewide records that cover all 67 Florida counties. Anyone can request these records for a small fee. Some records are sealed or removed by court order and stay hidden from the public.
What Glades County Criminal History Records Include
A criminal history record in Glades County is a written list of a person’s arrests, charges, court results, and sentences. These records come from police reports, court files, and the state database. They help prove if someone was arrested, what they were charged with, and how the case ended. Each record has a unique number called an OCA number, which stands for “Originating Agency Case number.” This number helps track the case from start to finish.
Arrest Records and Booking Data
Arrest records show when police took someone into custody, where the arrest happened, and what crime the person was charged with. Booking data adds the person’s photo, fingerprints, and physical details. In Glades County, the Glades County Sheriff’s Office creates these records when they arrest someone. The sheriff then sends the arrest data to the FDLE statewide database. Arrest records are public unless a judge seals the case or the charge was dropped.
Court Case Files and Dispositions
Court case files hold every paper from a criminal case, including the charging document, motions, plea deals, trial transcripts, and the final judgment. Disposition information shows how the case ended, such as a guilty plea, not guilty verdict, dismissed charges, or a deferred sentence. The Glades County Clerk of Courts stores these files in paper form and digital form. Older cases from before digital filing still exist as paper files inside the courthouse vault.
Sentencing and Probation Records
After a conviction, the judge enters a sentence. This could include jail time, fines, probation, or community service. Sentencing records list all penalties the court ordered. Probation records track whether the person followed the rules set by the probation officer. Violations of probation can lead to new arrest warrants. These records stay in the court file and also get sent to the Florida Department of Corrections if the person goes to state prison.
The Glades County Clerk of Courts Office
The Glades County Clerk of Courts is the main office that holds criminal court records for the county. This office sits in the county seat of Moore Haven. The Clerk is a locally elected official who serves a four-year term. Staff at this office help people look up cases, get copies of records, and file new legal papers. They also collect court fees and fines. The Clerk reports to the Florida Department of Revenue on some money matters but runs independently for court records.
Office Address and Hours
The Clerk of Courts office is located at 500 Avenue J, Moore Haven, FL 33471. The office is open Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The office closes on all state and federal holidays. The phone number for the clerk’s office is (863) 946-6010. The official website is www.gladesclerk.com. Visitors should bring a photo ID when they come to the office in person. The clerk’s office is in the same building as other county offices on Avenue J, which is the main street in downtown Moore Haven.
Types of Records the Clerk Maintains
The Clerk of Courts keeps arrest reports, criminal court files, traffic court files, family court files, probate files, and civil lawsuit files. For criminal history, the most useful files are the criminal division files. These files include felony cases, misdemeanor cases, and ordinance violations. Each case file has a case number that follows a set pattern, such as “2024-CF-000123.” The Clerk can search files by name, case number, or date range.
Public Access Terminals in the Courthouse
The Glades County Courthouse has public access computers in the Clerk’s office. These computers connect to the statewide court case search system. Visitors can search for cases by typing in a name or case number. The search shows basic case data, filing dates, and party names. To see the full court file, visitors must ask a clerk staff member to pull the file from storage. The clerk charges a per-page copy fee for paper copies.
How to Search Criminal Records in Glades County
People can search Glades County criminal history records in three main ways. The first way is to visit the Clerk of Courts office in Moore Haven. The second way is to use the clerk’s online case search tool. The third way is to order a statewide criminal history record from the FDLE. Each method has different costs, wait times, and levels of detail. Most people start with the free online search, then visit the courthouse if they need more detail.
Online Case Search Through the Clerk Website
The Glades County Clerk website at www.gladesclerk.com has a free public records search tool. Users type in a person’s full legal name to find court cases. The search shows the case number, filing date, charge type, and current status. It does not show full case documents online. The online system only has cases filed after 1990, when the county first started digital records. Older cases are still on paper and require an in-person visit.
In-Person Records Request at the Courthouse
To request records in person, go to the Clerk of Courts office at 500 Avenue J, Moore Haven, FL 33471. Bring a valid photo ID. Tell the clerk staff what records you need. They will search for matching cases and pull the file. You can review the file at a public table in the office. If you need paper copies, the clerk charges $1.00 per page for regular copies and $2.00 per page for certified copies. There is no fee to view files in person.
Mail and Email Records Requests
People who cannot visit Moore Haven can send a written records request by mail. The request must include the full name of the person being searched, a date of birth if known, and a self-addressed stamped envelope. Mail requests go to the same address: 500 Avenue J, Moore Haven, FL 33471. The clerk charges the same copy fees as in-person visits. Mail requests take about 5 to 10 business days to process. Email requests are not always accepted for criminal records due to privacy rules.
FDLE Statewide Criminal History Search
The Florida Department of Law Enforcement runs the central criminal history database for the whole state. This database has records from all 67 counties, including Glades County. The FDLE gets new arrest data from county sheriffs within 24 hours. The database is the official source for Florida background checks. Employers, licensing agencies, and gun dealers use FDLE checks to screen applicants.
What the FDLE Database Contains
The FDLE database includes every arrest in Florida since 1974. It lists the person’s name, date of birth, race, sex, arrest date, arrest agency, charges, and final case outcome. Each arrest has a unique record identifier. The database does not include juvenile records unless the person was charged as an adult. It also does not include sealed or expunged records. The FDLE updates the database every day as new arrests and court rulings come in.
FDLE Fee Schedule for 2026
The FDLE charges different fees based on the type of record check. A name-based criminal history check costs $24.00 per search. A fingerprint-based check costs $40.50 per person. A certified criminal history record certificate costs $25.00 extra. Volunteer organization checks cost $15.00. These fees are set by Florida law and do not change. Payment can be made by credit card, money order, or business check. Cash is not accepted for online orders.
OCA Numbers and Record Identifiers
Every record in the FDLE system has an OCA number, which stands for “Originating Agency Case number.” This number tells which law enforcement agency first reported the arrest. For example, OCA numbers starting with “GLSO” are from the Glades County Sheriff’s Office. Each arrest also has a unique state tracking number. These numbers help staff match records across different systems.
Background Check Options in Glades County
Background checks in Glades County fall into three main types. A local check only covers cases filed in Glades County court. A statewide check covers all Florida counties through the FDLE. A national check covers all states through the FBI. Most employers pick the type that matches the job. A cashier job may only need a local check. A teacher job needs a statewide and national check. A job with children or the elderly always requires a fingerprint-based check.
Name-Based Background Checks
Name-based background checks use a person’s name and date of birth to search databases. These checks are fast and cheap. They work well for people with uncommon names. They can produce false matches for people with common names like John Smith. Name-based checks cost $24.00 through the FDLE. Results come back in 1 to 3 business days. The results list every record found, even false matches. The requester must review the results to confirm the records belong to the right person.
Fingerprint-Based Background Checks
Fingerprint checks use a person’s physical fingerprints to confirm identity. The fingerprints get scanned into a digital reader and sent to the FDLE and FBI. The FDLE compares the prints against their database. Fingerprint checks are more accurate than name checks. They cost more, usually $40.50 to $50.00 per person. Live Scan locations in Florida take the prints. The closest Live Scan location to Glades County is in Okeechobee or LaBelle, both about 30 miles away.
Self-Check Personal Review Process
Anyone can request a copy of their own criminal history from the FDLE. This is called a personal review. To start the process, fill out the Personal Review form on the FDLE website. Get fingerprinted at a local law enforcement office. Mail the form, prints, and $24.00 fee to the FDLE in Tallahassee. The FDLE mails back the record in 2 to 3 weeks. People use this process to check for errors before a job application. If errors exist, the person can ask the FDLE to correct them.
Fees and Processing Times
Criminal history record fees in Florida are set by state law. The fees cover the cost of running the database and processing requests. Most fees are the same across all counties. The FDLE sets statewide fees. County clerks set their own copy fees. The table below shows common fees for 2026.
| Service Type | Provider | Fee | Processing Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Name-based criminal history | FDLE | $24.00 | 1 to 3 business days |
| Fingerprint-based check | FDLE | $40.50 | 3 to 5 business days |
| Certified record copy | FDLE | $25.00 extra | 2 to 4 weeks |
| Regular page copy | Glades Clerk | $1.00 per page | Same day |
| Certified page copy | Glades Clerk | $2.00 per page | Same day |
| Personal review request | FDLE | $24.00 | 2 to 3 weeks |
Record Sealing and Expungement in Glades County
Florida law lets some people hide or destroy their criminal records. This is called sealing or expungement. A sealed record stays in the system but the public cannot see it. An expunged record gets destroyed, with only one sealed copy left at the FDLE. People use these options to clear their record for jobs, housing, or school. Not everyone qualifies. The rules are strict.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for sealing or expungement, a person must meet several rules. First, they must have completed all sentence terms, including probation, fines, and restitution. Second, they must wait at least one year after the case ended. Third, they cannot have any other criminal convictions. Fourth, the original charge must be one that the law allows to be sealed. Serious charges like murder, sex crimes, and child abuse cannot be sealed. Misdemeanors and some felonies qualify.
Certificate of Eligibility Process
The first step in sealing a record is to get a Certificate of Eligibility from the FDLE. To get this certificate, the person fills out Form 8.13.16. The form asks for personal data, case data, and the type of relief requested. The FDLE runs a state and national background check. If the person qualifies, the FDLE issues a certificate that is valid for one year. The certificate has a number that must be included on the court petition.
Filing the Petition in Glades County
With the Certificate of Eligibility, the person files a petition with the Glades County Clerk of Courts. The petition uses form 8.13.17. The clerk assigns a case number and sets a court date. A judge reviews the petition. The judge can grant or deny the request. If granted, the clerk sends a copy of the order to the FDLE and the arresting agency. The arresting agency must then destroy their records.
Public Records Request Process in Florida
Florida has a strong public records law under Chapter 119 of the Florida Statutes. This law says that any record made or kept by a government agency is open to the public. The law covers criminal history records held by the clerk and the FDLE. There are some exceptions, like sealed records, juvenile records, and active investigation files. The law helps reporters, researchers, and regular citizens keep government accountable.
Submitting a Public Records Request
A public records request can be made in writing or in person. The request should describe the records wanted. The clerk’s office accepts requests by mail, email, or in person. There is no required form. The request must include a phone number or address for the response. The clerk charges the same copy fees as other record requests. The clerk must respond within a reasonable time, usually 5 to 10 business days.
Exemptions and Restricted Records
Some criminal history records cannot be released. Sealed records are not open to the public. Expunged records are destroyed. Juvenile records are kept private by law. Records that identify crime victims are also restricted. Active investigation files held by the sheriff are not public until the case is closed. Some personnel records of law enforcement officers are also exempt from public release.
Nearby County Resources
Criminal records are kept by each county in Florida. A complete background check may require looking at nearby counties too. Glades County borders several larger counties. The clerk of courts in each county keeps its own records. The table below shows the nearby counties and their clerk contact data.
| County | County Seat | Clerk Phone |
|---|---|---|
| Highlands County | Sebring | (863) 402-6564 |
| Okeechobee County | Okeechobee | (863) 763-2131 |
| Palm Beach County | West Palm Beach | (561) 355-2996 |
| Hendry County | LaBelle | (863) 675-5217 |
| Lee County | Fort Myers | (239) 533-5000 |
| Charlotte County | Punta Gorda | (941) 637-2244 |
The 20th Judicial Circuit
Glades County sits in Florida’s 20th Judicial Circuit. This circuit also covers Hendry, Charlotte, Lee, and Collier counties. The main courthouse for the circuit is in Fort Myers. The circuit court handles major felony cases and appeals from county courts. Each county has a county court that handles misdemeanors, small claims, and traffic cases. Glades County’s share of the circuit court budget comes from the state and local fees.
Official Contact Information
For direct help with Glades County criminal history records, contact the Clerk of Courts office. The staff can answer questions about case searches, copy fees, and sealing procedures. For statewide background checks, contact the FDLE at their Tallahassee office. Legal help is also available through the Florida Bar and Florida Legal Services.
Glades County Clerk of Courts
Address: 500 Avenue J, Moore Haven, FL 33471
Phone: (863) 946-6010
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Website: www.gladesclerk.com
Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE)
Address: 2331 Phillips Road, Tallahassee, FL 32308
Phone: (850) 410-7000
Website: www.fdle.state.fl.us
Florida Bar Lawyer Referral Service
Phone: 1-800-561-9690
Florida Legal Services
Website: www.floridalegal.org
Frequently Asked Questions
The following questions cover common topics about Glades County criminal history records. Each answer provides clear details to help residents, employers, and researchers. The answers reflect the most current Florida laws and FDLE procedures as of 2026.
How Long Does Glades County Keep Criminal History Records?
Glades County keeps criminal history records permanently for most adult cases. Paper files stay in the courthouse vault. Digital files stay in the clerk’s computer system. Records are not deleted by the clerk, even if the case is very old. However, the FDLE removes certain non-conviction records after specific time periods set by Florida law. Cases that end in a not guilty verdict or a dropped charge are removed from the public FDLE database after the waiting period. Sealed and expunged records are also removed from public view. The clerk’s office still keeps the physical file in a confidential location for sealed records.
Can I Get Criminal Records Removed From My Record in Glades County?
Yes, you can ask the court to seal or expunge certain criminal records in Glades County. You must first get a Certificate of Eligibility from the FDLE. The certificate confirms you meet all legal rules. You then file a petition with the Glades County Clerk of Courts. A judge reviews the petition and decides if you qualify. If the judge approves, the clerk sends a court order to the FDLE and the arresting agency. Sealed records are hidden from the public. Expunged records are destroyed except for one sealed copy kept by the FDLE. Serious charges like murder, sex crimes, and child abuse cannot be removed.
What Is the Difference Between an Arrest Record and a Conviction Record?
An arrest record shows that police took someone into custody. It does not mean the person is guilty. Many people are arrested and later found not guilty. A conviction record shows the person was found guilty, either by a jury or by a guilty plea. Florida law treats arrest records and conviction records differently. Arrest records without conviction can sometimes be sealed. Conviction records stay on the public record, except for minor offenses that qualify for expungement. A Florida criminal history record contains both arrest data and disposition data, which shows how each arrest ended.
How Do Employers Run Background Checks in Glades County?
Employers in Glades County usually order background checks through the FDLE or private screening companies. For most jobs, the employer pays $24.00 for a name-based FDLE check. For jobs that work with children, elderly people, or disabled people, the employer must run a fingerprint-based Level 2 background check. This check costs $40.50 to $50.00 and includes state and FBI records. The employer must get written permission from the applicant before running the check. The results must be kept private by the employer under Florida law.
What Shows Up on a Florida Criminal History Record?
A Florida criminal history record shows every arrest in the state, the charges filed, and the final case outcome. It includes the person’s name, date of birth, race, sex, and the date of each arrest. The record also lists the arresting agency, the county where the arrest happened, and the OCA number. Court results, such as guilty plea, not guilty verdict, or case dismissal, appear in the disposition section. Probation information and sentence details are also included. Sealed and expunged records do not appear on the public record. Juvenile records do not appear unless the person was charged as an adult.
Can I Search Glades County Records Online for Free?
Yes, you can search the Glades County Clerk of Courts website at www.gladesclerk.com for free. The website has a public records search tool that shows case numbers, party names, filing dates, and case status. The free online search covers most cases filed after 1990. The search does not show full court documents, and you cannot get certified copies online. For full case files, you must visit the clerk’s office in person or send a mail request. The free online tool is a good first step before paying for certified records or statewide FDLE checks.