Data You Give Us Directly
Search Queries
A name or location entered in a search tool is sent directly to the outside provider operating that tool. The provider processes the query and supplies its results. We do not keep or log those search terms on our systems.
Messages and Contact Submissions
An email or other direct message may be retained so our team can respond. It is not disclosed outside the organization unless the law requires disclosure.
Data We Gather Automatically
When a page loads, servers automatically receive basic technical and visit details:
- The IP address assigned to your device
- Which browser you are using and its version
- Your device type and operating system
- The pages you visited and how long you stayed on each
- The site that sent you here, if any
- Timestamps for each page view
Cookies and Analytics
Cookies are small files placed on a device. They and analytics services help combine traffic data, such as popular pages and common exit points. Browser controls can block cookies, although doing so may change how parts of the site work.
What We Do With This Data
- Operating the site and maintaining performance
- Routing a search request to the selected partner
- Understanding which pages are useful or need improvement
- Diagnosing errors and other technical problems
- Displaying advertising that may reflect visitor interests
No Criminal-Record Data on File
Washington County Criminal History does not keep, assemble, or sell a database of personal criminal records. It publishes general directions to the Washington County Sheriff's Office, Alabama courts, ALEA's Criminal Justice Information Services Division, and the Alabama Sex Offender Registry. It is not a consumer reporting agency under the Fair Credit Reporting Act, and visitor data is not compiled into consumer reports or third-party criminal files.
Third-Party Search Partners
Outside companies provide the search boxes. Information submitted to a box is handled under that company's policy rather than this policy. Each partner controls its own retention and disclosure practices, so review those terms before running a query.
Links to Other Websites
Links may lead to sheriff pages, court portals, Alabama agencies, legal resources, or outside search services. Once a visitor leaves this site, the destination's privacy terms apply. Review them before providing personal data.
Some advertising providers may use activity across websites to tailor ads. That processing occurs on the providers' systems.
Who Might See Your Data
Personal data is not sold. It may be disclosed to:
- Search partners that handle queries you run on our site
- Analytics services we use to track traffic and performance
- Ad networks that place ads on our pages
- Law enforcement or government bodies when a valid legal order requires it
How We Protect Your Data
Reasonable security practices protect collected data, but no internet service can guarantee complete security. A breach or unauthorized access therefore cannot be ruled out.
Users Under 18
This service is intended for adults, and personal information is not knowingly collected from anyone under 18. A verified request concerning a minor's submitted data will be handled by deleting that information.
Your Data Rights
Rights vary by residence and applicable law. The Alabama Open Records Act, principally Alabama Code §36-12-40, governs qualifying public writings rather than private-site visitor data. Alabama criminal-history dissemination is separately controlled under Alabama Code §41-9-590 et seq. Subject to applicable law, you may:
- Ask for a copy of what we have on file about you
- Have us fix information that is wrong
- Request that we erase your data
- Opt out of certain kinds of data processing
Updates to This Policy
This policy may be revised. A new version takes effect when posted here with its updated effective date.
Effective date: July 15, 2026