What to do about a customs problem regarding an old arrest?
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What to do about a customs problem regarding an old arrest?
I was arrested for defrauding an innkeeper in 1975. I was fingerprinted and held overnight. Charges were dropped, with my agreeing not to go to that hotel again. Basically, what happened was that we reused a key we had not turned in from a previous stay, to use the shower as we had no facilities where we were staying. Now 36 years later I can’t get approved for Global Entry through US Customs because my fingerprints are on file with a burglary arrest.
Asked on March 1, 2011 under Criminal Law, Wisconsin
Answers:
M.T.G., Member, New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 13 years ago | Contributor
This is what happens when people fail to have records expunged or sealed and follow up with destruction of finger print cards after cases are dismissed. Although sealing and expunging records (depending on the state the manner is different and the law differs as well) can in most instances keep the records from view from most agencies, the records can still be seen by some governmental agencies. I would speak with a criminal attorney in the area that you were arrested about expunging the record and what you can do the help with the Customs Issue. It may be the best way to have it taken care of once and for all. Good luck to you.
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