Deletion of Police Records UK

Having a police record doesn't have to define your future. Whether it's a caution, an arrest, or mistaken identity, the Record Deletion Process provides a pathway to remove certain records from police databases.

You can apply to have certain police records deleted through the Record Deletion Process (RDP), which is managed by the ACRO Criminal Records Office.

Due to its complexity, seeking specialist legal advice from a criminal defence solicitor can significantly improve your chances of success. Taking action early, providing the right evidence, and having expert guidance can make all the difference.

If you need help with the deletion of your police records, call Moeen & Co. Solicitors on 0203 959 7755 or complete our enquiry form for legal support.

Table of Contents

What Is Police Record Deletion?

Police record deletion, also called record removal, is the process of having certain police records removed from official databases such as the Police National Computer (PNC), National DNA Database (NDNAD), or National Fingerprint Database (IDENT1). It applies mainly to non-conviction records like arrests without charge, cautions, or cases of mistaken identity.

When Record Deletion Might Be Possible

Not every police record can be deleted, but there are several situations where record deletion may be possible under the UK's Record Deletion Process (RDP). Understanding these circumstances can help you decide whether to apply and what evidence may be needed to support your case.

1. No Further Action (NFA)

If you were arrested but not charged, you may still have a record on the Police National Computer (PNC). In such cases, you can apply to have the record deleted, especially if keeping it could negatively affect your career, travel, or reputation.

2. Police Caution

It's possible to apply for the removal of a police caution, but the process is not automatic. You'll need to show that something went wrong during the caution procedure, for example, if you were not properly informed of your rights or did not fully understand the consequences of accepting the caution.

3. Mistaken Identity

If you were wrongly identified as a suspect, this is one of the strongest grounds for police record deletion. Our criminal defence solicitor can help present clear evidence proving the mistake, ensuring your record is corrected or deleted to prevent further impact on your life.

4. False or Malicious Allegations

When an arrest or caution resulted from a false accusation, you can apply for the record to be removed. Providing supporting evidence, such as witness statements or proof of malicious intent, can strengthen your case.

5. Miscarriage of Justice or Proven Innocence

If you were found not guilty in court, you can request the deletion of your DNA and fingerprints. However, your arrest record may remain on the PNC, which requires a separate deletion request through ACRO.

6. No Crime Was Committed

If the police determine that no crime actually took place after an arrest or investigation, you can apply to have the record deleted. This is often the case in misunderstandings or civil disputes mistakenly treated as criminal matters.

7. Public Interest Considerations

In some instances, even if none of the above apply, the police may agree to delete a record if it's deemed no longer in the public interest to retain it. Our solicitor can help argue this point effectively, particularly when the record is outdated or continues to unfairly affect your life.

At Moeen & Co. Solicitors, we carefully assess your circumstances to determine the best grounds for police record deletion and prepare a strong, well-supported application to improve your chances of success.

Important Considerations Before Applying for Record Deletion

Before applying to have your police record deleted, it's important to understand how the process works, what the police consider when reviewing applications, and what outcomes are realistic. The Record Deletion Process (RDP) is not automatic, and success often depends on how well your case is presented.

1. Deletion Is Not Guaranteed

Submitting an application does not mean your record will automatically be deleted. Each case is reviewed individually by the police force that owns the record, and they have the discretion to decide whether deletion is justified based on the evidence you provide.

2. Court Convictions Cannot Be Deleted

It's important to note that court convictions cannot be removed through the RDP. This process only applies to non-conviction records, such as arrests without charge, police cautions, or records created due to mistaken identity or false allegations.

3. Automatic Deletion May Apply in Some Cases

If you were arrested but not charged, your DNA and fingerprints are usually deleted automatically once the investigation concludes, provided you have no other convictions. However, the arrest record itself may still remain on the Police National Computer (PNC), and you'll need to submit a formal application if you want that record considered for deletion.

4. Supporting Evidence Is Crucial

Strong evidence can make the difference between approval and refusal. Documents such as correspondence from the police, proof of mistaken identity, or evidence showing that the allegation was false can strengthen your case. Our solicitor can help you collect and present this evidence effectively.

5. Decisions Are Case-Specific

The police assess each application on its own merits, considering the nature of the offence, the time that has passed, and whether retaining the record is still in the public interest. Because of this, even similar cases may result in different outcomes.

6. Professional Legal Support Can Make a Difference

Applying for record deletion can be time-consuming and legally complex. Having an experienced criminal defence solicitor by your side can improve your chances of success. Our solicitor can help you frame persuasive legal arguments, ensure your application is complete, and challenge any refusal if necessary.

At Moeen & Co. Solicitors, we provide clear, professional advice and hands-on support throughout the police record deletion process. Whether you're applying to remove a caution, arrest record, or biometric data, our legal team will guide you through each step and work to secure the best possible outcome for your situation.

How to Apply for Police Record Deletion?

Applying for the deletion of police records in the UK involves a formal process known as the Record Deletion Process (RDP), managed by the ACRO Criminal Records Office. While it's possible to complete the process yourself, having professional legal guidance from experienced solicitors like Moeen & Co. Solicitors can make the difference between success and refusal.

Here's a step-by-step guide to help you understand how the process works.

Step 1: Check Your Eligibility

Before applying, it's essential to make sure your record qualifies for deletion. The Record Deletion Process only applies to certain types of records, such as:

• Arrests that resulted in no further action (NFA)
• Police cautions
• Records arising from mistaken identity or false allegations

Court convictions cannot be deleted through this process. If your record involves a conviction, different legal options may be available, which our solicitor can advise you on.

Step 2: Gather the Required Information

You'll need to complete a detailed application form, which can be found on the GOV.UK website. This form requires you to provide personal details, information about the incident, and the reasons you believe your record should be deleted.

It's important to include as much relevant evidence as possible, such as proof of mistaken identity, false allegations, or documents showing that no crime was committed. Missing or incomplete information can delay your application or reduce your chances of success.

Step 3: Submit Your Application to ACRO

Once your application form and evidence are ready, you must send them to the ACRO Criminal Records Office. ACRO oversees the administrative process, but does not make the final decision; the decision is made by the police force that owns the record.

The police will review your case, assess the evidence you've provided, and determine whether the record should be deleted. This review process can take several weeks or months, depending on the complexity of your case.

Step 4: Wait for the Police Decision

After submitting your application, the police will conduct an internal review. They may contact you or your solicitor for clarification or additional documents. Once a decision has been made, you will receive written confirmation of the outcome.

If your application is approved, your record will be removed from relevant databases, including the Police National Computer (PNC), National DNA Database (NDNAD), and National Fingerprint Database (IDENT1).

Step 5: If Your Application Is Refused

If your deletion request is denied, you still have options. Our criminal defence solicitor can help you:

• Review the refusal notice and identify weaknesses in your initial application
• Submit additional evidence or clarification to strengthen your case
• Challenge the decision through the Information Commissioner's Office (ICO) or judicial review if the decision appears unreasonable

Having legal support at this stage can significantly improve your chances of success on appeal.

Step 6: Seek Professional Legal Assistance

While anyone can apply for police record deletion, the process is often complex and discretionary. Working with an experienced criminal defence solicitor ensures that your application is presented clearly, supported by strong legal arguments, and backed by the right evidence.

At Moeen & Co. Solicitors, we handle the entire process for you, from assessing eligibility and completing the application to communicating with ACRO and challenging refusals when necessary. Our goal is to give you the best possible chance of having your record removed permanently.

Why You Should Consider a Criminal Defence Solicitor for Police Record Deletion?

If you have a caution or a “no further action” outcome on your record, it's strongly recommended to seek the help of a criminal defence solicitor. While it's technically possible to apply for record deletion on your own, the process is complicated, fact-specific, and often requires detailed evidence and legal arguments to succeed.

A specialist criminal defence solicitor not only understands the law but also knows the practical steps needed to maximise your chances of success.

How Moeen & Co. Solicitors Can Help

Navigating the process of police record deletion in the UK can be complex and stressful. At Moeen & Co. Solicitors, we provide expert guidance to help you through every step of the Record Deletion Process (RDP). Here's how we can assist:

1. Assessing Your Eligibility

Not all police records can be deleted. We carefully review your case to determine whether your record qualifies under the ACRO Criminal Records Office guidelines, including cautions, arrests without charge, or records affected by mistaken identity.

2. Preparing Strong Applications

Submitting a record deletion application requires detailed information and clear legal reasoning. Our team ensures your application is completed accurately, presenting strong arguments to increase your chances of success.

3. Handling Communications with Authorities

We liaise directly with ACRO and the relevant police force on your behalf, ensuring all correspondence is professional, timely, and persuasive. This reduces delays and avoids common pitfalls in the process.

4. Challenging Refusals

If your initial application is refused, our solicitors can advise on your options, including appeals to the Information Commissioner's Office (ICO) or pursuing judicial review. We help you understand the process and support you at every stage.

5. Restoring Your Reputation

Police records can have long-lasting effects on your personal and professional life. Our goal is to help remove records where possible, giving you the chance to move forward with confidence.

With Moeen & Co. Solicitors, you benefit from specialist legal expertise, personalised guidance, and a commitment to achieving the best possible outcome in your police record deletion case.

Need Help with Deleting Your Police Record?

For the deletion of your police records, contact our specialist criminal defence solicitors at 0203 959 7755 or fill out our enquiry form for expert support.