What Happens When a Mugshot Is Published for an Offense You Didn’t Commit?

March 26, 2025 Mugshot Removal

Mugshots are more than photos taken during an arrest—they can have serious implications for individuals and their communities. As public records, mugshots are widely accessible online, raising questions about privacy, reputation, and justice.

What Is a Mugshot?

A mugshot is a photo taken after an arrest, primarily used for identification within the criminal justice system. These images are often made publicly available, raising concerns about privacy and long-term effects on reputation. Mugshots can quickly surface in search results, affecting job prospects, relationships, and social standing.

Why Are Mugshots Published?

Mugshots are typically published because they are classified as public records. Law enforcement agencies make these photos accessible to inform the public about arrests and criminal activity. Proponents argue that this transparency deters crime and holds individuals accountable.

However, the reality is more complicated. Websites that host mugshots often profit from displaying them and may charge hefty fees for removal. This commercial use of someone’s image without consent can feel exploitative and unjust. Legal experts stress the need for clear guidelines for using and sharing these images.

Media Attention

Mugshots often attract media coverage, especially in high-profile cases. News sites and social media platforms share these photos without always providing context, leading to public judgment before legal facts are established. Unfortunately, once a mugshot becomes public, controlling how it spreads is almost impossible. This can lead to distorted narratives and unfair perceptions.

Deterrent or Damage

Some argue that making mugshots public deters criminal behavior. They believe that seeing the potential consequences—like public exposure—can discourage unlawful actions. However, this perspective overlooks how damaging it can be for those falsely accused or later proven innocent.

Critics point out that publicly posting mugshots creates a stigma that can follow a person for years. Even when charges are dropped or expunged, the photo may remain online, harming reputations long after the legal issues are resolved. In many cases, individuals face discrimination in employment, housing, and social situations simply because their face is associated with a past arrest.

The Consequences of Having a Mugshot Published

Having your mugshot online can lead to various negative consequences, from professional setbacks to personal challenges. Here are some of the most significant impacts:

Reputation Damage

One of the most immediate consequences of a mugshot publication is damage to your reputation. Employers, neighbors, and family members can quickly judge a person based on a photo. Because mugshots are often one of the first search results tied to a name, they create a lasting negative impression.

Difficulty Finding Employment

Many employers perform background checks, which often include online searches. A mugshot on a website can immediately disqualify someone from a job, even if the charges were dismissed. The mere association with criminal activity makes hiring managers move on to the next candidate.

Strained Personal Relationships

A mugshot can also impact personal relationships. Friends and family may distance themselves, and significant others may feel pressure from social judgment. The long-lasting presence of these photos on the internet can be emotionally exhausting, making it hard for individuals to rebuild their lives.

Legal Rights for Individuals with Published Mugshots

Knowing your rights if your mugshot has been published is important. In some states, individuals can petition to have mugshots removed from websites, particularly if the charges have been dropped or expunged. However, navigating these processes can be challenging without legal help.

Right to Removal

Some states have enacted laws that require websites to remove mugshots upon request, especially when charges no longer exist. However, not all states offer this protection, and some websites still demand payment to take down the photo. Legal assistance can help navigate the complicated removal process.

Seeking Damages

If you believe that the publication of your mugshot has caused harm—like losing a job or damaging your reputation—you may be able to file a lawsuit for damages. Successful claims usually involve proving that the publication caused measurable harm or was done maliciously. Working with an experienced attorney can help you build a strong case and pursue compensation.

Handling False Arrests

If your mugshot was taken after a wrongful arrest, you might be eligible to file a false arrest claim. This involves demonstrating that the arrest lacked probable cause. An attorney can help collect evidence, like witness statements and police reports, to build your case and potentially secure compensation.

How to Get Your Mugshot Removed from the Internet

If your mugshot appears online, the first step is to identify where it’s being displayed. Contacting the website owner and requesting removal is often the initial approach. Some sites may comply if the charges were dropped or expunged, while others may require a fee.

Hire a Reputation Management Service

Hiring a professional reputation management service is often the most efficient way to address online mugshots. These services have the tools and expertise to deindex content from search engines and work with website administrators to remove harmful information.

File a Lawsuit

You may consider filing a lawsuit to remove your mugshot if all else fails. This step is usually a last resort and requires substantial evidence to support your claim. An experienced attorney can guide you through the legal process and improve your chances of success.

Know Your Legal Options

It’s essential to be proactive when dealing with online mugshots. Understanding your rights and seeking professional help can make a significant difference.

Whether you contact websites directly, hire a reputation management firm, or pursue legal action, taking steps to protect your reputation is crucial.