Fingerprint & Photograph Destruction

Fingerprint & Photograph Destruction

An application for the destruction of fingerprints, photographs and the record of disposition must be made using the Fingerprint & Photograph Destruction Application Form, by the person to whom the records relate or by a person authorized in writing by that person. 

Note: The Youth Criminal Justice Act mandates the process in relation to fingerprints and photographs, therefore an application for fingerprint and photograph destruction for young persons will not be accepted.

The following time frames apply:

• Acquittal:  two months after the expiry of the time allowed for an appeal, or if an appeal is taken, three months after all proceedings have been completed.
• Dismissal:  two months after the expiry of the time allowed for an appeal, or if an appeal is taken, three months after all proceedings have been completed.
• Stayed Charges:  one year from date of stay of proceedings.
• Withdrawn Charges:  thirty days, plus thirty days in the event of late notification for appeal.
• Withdrawn Charges plus Peace Bond:  upon expiry of the peace bond (typically one year but can be longer).
• Diversions (Direct Accountability) will be retained for two years from date of finding  then sealed indefinitely in accordance with section 717.2 (1) of the Criminal Code.  Destruction will be considered on a case by case basis, after five years from the date of disposition. 
• **Note: Anyone wishing to seal an Absolute or Conditional discharge received prior to July 24, 1992 must write to the RCMP for consideration.  Findings of Guilt relating to Absolute and Conditional Discharges post 1992 will be automatically sealed one and  three years respectively, in accordance with sec 6.1(1) of the Criminal Records Act.

The following criteria also applies:

• A local file closure only applies to records of non-convictions.  A record suspension application must be filed with the Parole Board of Canada in relation to convictions.
• Records to be destroyed are limited to fingerprints, photographs and the record of the disposition only.  Reports pertaining to the incident/arrest will not be destroyed.  These documents are subject to retention under the Niagara Regional Police Service Retention Bylaw.

The fingerprint & photograph destruction fee of $50.00 is non-refundable, and destruction is not guaranteed.

IMPORTANT NOTICE

Payment Policy Adjustment

Effective October 1, 2018

Please be advised that effective October 1, 2018 payment may be made by Debit, Visa or MasterCard.

Cash will no longer be accepted.

Submit request to: