Rosters list charges in short, technical language. Here is how to read them. Remember: a charge is an accusation, not a conviction, and everyone is presumed innocent.
Felony, misdemeanor and infraction
- Felony
- The most serious level. Generally punishable by more than a year of incarceration, which is served in state or federal prison.
- Misdemeanor
- A less serious crime, generally punishable by up to a year in a county jail, fines or probation.
- Infraction
- A minor violation, such as many traffic tickets, usually punished by a fine and no jail time.
Many states divide these into degrees or classes. For example, Utah uses first, second and third degree felonies and class A, B and C misdemeanors, while other states use letters (Class A felony) or numbers (Level 1). The labels are not the same from state to state.
Reading a charge line
- Description: short text such as "Poss of controlled substance". Abbreviations are common.
- Statute: the law section, for example "58-37-8" or "PC 459". You can search a statute number with the state's name to read the actual law.
- Counts: the same charge listed more than once means more than one alleged act.
- Warrant, FTA, probation violation: the person may be held on an existing case rather than a new crime. FTA means failure to appear in court.
- Hold: another agency (another county, the state, federal authorities or immigration) has asked the jail to keep the person.
Why charges change
The charges at booking are chosen by the arresting officer. A prosecutor then decides what to formally file, which can mean more charges, fewer charges, different charges, or none at all. Court records, not jail rosters, show the final result, including dismissals and acquittals.
Questions
Does being on a jail roster mean someone committed a crime?
No. An arrest is not a conviction. Many charges are reduced or dismissed, and everyone is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.
Where can I see how a case ended?
In the court records for the county or state where the case was filed. Many state court systems offer online case search.
This guide is general information, not legal advice. Laws and facility rules differ and change; confirm details with the facility, court or a lawyer.