What are Kenosha County Public Records?
According to the Wisconsin Open Records Law, Kenosha County public records are created or kept by a government authority. The definition covers information regardless of physical form or characteristics, and includes handwritten or typewritten documents, photographs, audio or video recordings, tapes, maps, charts, and any other medium that records or preserves data. Under the law, interested requestorsmay obtain records by applying to the relevant custodian agencies. However, some records, including the following, are not open to public disclosure:
- Law enforcement records as required by federal law or regulations
- All records specifically exempted from public disclosure by state or federal law. This also includes records allowed to be exempted by state law. However, government agencies may make such records available after redacting confidential portions
- Computer programs and related data, excluding materials used as input for the program, or the materials produced by the program
- All records containing trade secrets. Wisconsin law defines trade secrets as any information, device or technique that derives independent economic value from its scarcity or unavailability to persons that can extract economic value from its use or disclosure
- Records that reveal the identity of applicants for public positions, if the applicant requests confidentiality in writing. However, this exemption does not cover final candidates considered by the agency as the most qualified persons for the appointment
- Records that contain specifications or plans for a current or proposed state-owned or state-leased facility, structure or building
- Some employee personnel information unless another statute specifically authorizes or requires access. Exempt details include the employee's contact information, social security number, investigative records of possible misconduct or a criminal offense, and employee examination records
- Personal records of a person holding state or local public office unless another statute specifically authorizes or requires access
- Financial identifying information on an individual or customer of a financial institution, including credit card numbers, debit card numbers, draft account numbers, and checking account numbers
Kenosha County Crime Statistics
The Wisconsin Department of Justice (DOJ) operates a Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) dashboard that contains statewide crime statistics. In 2020, Kenosha County reported a total of 3,484 crimes, including 8 homicides, 61 rape incidents, 101 robberies, 347 aggravated assaults, 811 simple assaults, and 291 burglaries. The dashboard also shows 1,548 larceny-theft incidents, 278 motor vehicle thefts, and 39 arsons.
Compared with 2019 figures, homicide, robbery, aggravated assault, burglary, motor vehicle theft, and arson rates all increased. The biggest increase was arson, which jumped 200% between 2019 and 2020. However, there were decreases in the rates of simple assault, rape, and larceny theft. Overall in 2019, the UCR dashboard reported a total of 3,658 offenses, nearly 5% lower than the 2020 figure.
Are Kenosha County Criminal Records Public?
Wisconsin law provides public access to Kenosha County criminal records. Interested parties may obtain these records by contacting the Wisconsin Department of Justice (DOJ). The DOJ allows requestors to conduct name-based searches for personal or third-party Kenosha criminal records via the Wisconsin Online Record Check System (WORCS).
To search through WORCS, each requestor must provide exact details of the following:
- Date of birth
- First name
- Last name
- First initial or social security number
Users may also add a Wisconsin Unique Personal Identification Number (WiUPIN). However, searchers who include the WiUPIN will receive a “No Record Found” result if the number is associated with a successfully challenged criminal record. In addition, users should note that online information may be limited. Some information maintained by courts, local police departments, and some federal agencies may be unavailable. Furthermore, the WORCS may require credit or debit card payments.
Kenosha criminal records are also requestable via mail by completing the name record request form (DJ-LE-250). Each copy costs $12, payable by a check or money order made out to the Wisconsin Department of Justice. Mail requests also require self-addressed and postage-paid envelopes. All requests should be submitted to the:
Wisconsin Department of Justice
Division of Law Enforcement Services
Crime Information Bureau
Attention: Record Check Unit
P.O. Box 2688
Madison, WI 53701-2688
Phone: (608) 266-7314
How to Obtain Kenosha County Police Reports and Arrest Records
Residents may obtain Kenosha County arrest records and police reports from the Kenosha County Sheriff’s Department. Interested persons may request records by mail or in person. Both methods require the searcher to submit details of the records, including the names of involved persons, the incident date, incident location, charge details, and other known specifics. Requestors should note that obtaining Kenosha arrest records or police reports may cost copy fees. Also, these records may not contain names, addresses, phone numbers, or any other details that could identify confidential informants. Residents may forward requests to the:
Kenosha County Sheriff’s Department
1000 55th Street
Kenosha, WI 53140
Phone: (262) 605-5100
Fax: (262) 605-5130
How to Find Sex Offender Information in Kenosha County
The Wisconsin Department of Corrections (DOC) provides online access to statewide sex offender information via a searchable online registry. Residents may search the registry for Kenosha County sex offender information via a name search or a geographical search. The name search requires the offender's last name and provides optional search boxes for a first name and a middle initial. Using the geographical search, users can enter a specific location or search for all sex offenders within a specified mile radius of a defined address, or within a specific zip code.
Details available on the registry include each offender’s full name, alias, physical description, registration dates, and a photograph. Other available details are the offender’s residence, report and verification dates, offense and conviction details, as well as vehicle information.
How to Find Kenosha County Inmate Records
The Kenosha County Sheriff’s Department maintains an online database with inmate records. Residents may use the current inmate search or the archive inmate search provided on the Sheriff’s Department’s inmate search page. The current inmate search allows record seekers to enter the inmate’s name, subject number, booking date range, booking number, and housing facility. Users may also restrict search results to inmates currently in custody. The result displays the inmate’s photograph, full name, subject number, date of birth, and other physical and demographic information. Other details include a booking history, charge description, disposition, and crime class.
The archive inmate search page provides results of inmates incarcerated before 5/2/2017 but not earlier than January 1, 2003. Residents may search by the inmate's full name, date of birth, booking date, and jail ID.
How Do I Visit an Inmate in the Kenosha County Jail
The Sheriff’s Office operates two detention facilities, including the Kenosha County Detention Center (KCDC) and the Kenosha County Pre Trial Facility. Interested family and friends may schedule visits using links on either website or by registering at the kiosks in both facilities:
Kenosha County Detention Center
4777 88th Avenue
Kenosha, WI 53144
Kenosha County Pre Trial Facility
1000 55th Street
Kenosha, WI 53140
Interested persons may schedule on-site and off-site video visits. All visitors must schedule visits at least one day in advance but no more than seven days before the visit. Each person must also check in at least 15 minutes before the scheduled visit. All off-site visits cost $4 for 10 minutes and $10 for 25 minutes.
Both facilities allow on-site visits every day of the week (excluding holidays), from 9:00 am to 11:30 am and 1:00 pm to 4:30 pm. For off-site visits, visitation is allowed every day from 9:00 am to 11:30 am, 1:00 pm to 4:30 pm, and 6:00 pm to 8:30 pm.
All visitors must adhere to a strict dress code enforced at both facilities. Generally, provocative, see-through, revealing, or otherwise inappropriate clothing is unacceptable. In addition to the dress code, the Sheriff's Office also provides guidelines on inappropriate behavior. The following actions may result in a suspension or termination of visitation privileges for the visitor, inmate, or detainee:
- Use or display of weapons, including knives, guns, and ammunition
- Use or display of alcohol, drugs, or other paraphernalia
- Display or activity related to a gang or any other security threat group
- Nudity or display of nudity
- Any disruptive behavior by the visitor, detainee, or inmate
Court Records
The Kenosha County court system features Circuit and Municipal Courts. Circuit Courts have general jurisdiction over all cases and exclusive jurisdiction over criminal matters. Although Municipal Courts have limited jurisdiction over county cases, these courts exercise exclusive jurisdiction over many ordinance violations. The Municipal Court handles traffic violations, some juvenile cases, and non-jury drunk driving trials for first offenses. Municipal Courts do not conduct jury trials. Instead, the courts transfer requests for jury trials to the Kenosha County Circuit Court.
Locations of Courts in Kenosha County
Kenosha County Circuit Court
Kenosha County Courthouse
912 56th Street
Kenosha, WI 53140
Phone: (262) 653-2664
City of Kenosha Municipal Court
652 52nd Street
Room 97
Kenosha, WI 53140
Phone: (262) 653-4220
Town of Randall Municipal Court
34530 Bassett Road
Bassett, WI 53101
Phone: (262) 877-2165
Fax: (262) 877-9032
Town of Somers Municipal Court
7511 12th Street
Kenosha, WI 53144
Phone: (262) 859-2822
Fax: (262) 859-2331
Town of Wheatland Municipal Court
34315 Geneva Road
New Munster, WI 53152
Phone: (262) 537-4340
Fax: (262) 857-4261
Village of Bristol Municipal Court
19801 83rd Street
Bristol, WI 53104
Phone: (262) 857-2368
Fax: (262) 857-2136
Village of Paddock Lake Municipal Court
6969 236th Avenue
Paddock Lake, WI 53168
Phone: (262) 843-9314
Fax: (262) 843-3409
Village of Pleasant Prairie Municipal Court
9915 39th Avenue
Pleasant Prairie, WI 53158
Phone: (262) 694-8923
Fax: (262) 694-1401
Village of Salem Lakes Municipal Court
9814 Antioch Road (STH 83)
Salem, WI 53168
Phone: (262) 843-2759
Village of Twin Lakes Municipal Court
108 East Main Street
Twin Lakes, WI 53181
Phone: (262) 877-2269
Fax: (262) 877-2699
Are Kenosha County Court Records Public?
According to Wisconsin law, most Kenosha County court records are public records. However, records containing details of confidential court cases are not open to the public. In addition, the public cannot access juvenile records and other records exempted from public disclosure by state or federal law.
Can You Look up a Kenosha County Court Case Online?
Kenosha court records are available online. The Wisconsin Court System provides online access via a case search where interested persons may search by name, case number, and birth date. Advanced search options include case type, case status, filing date, attorney type, citation number, and disposition date.
How to Obtain Kenosha County Civil Court Case Records
The Kenosha County Clerk of Courts Office maintains copies of civil court case records. Interested residents may contact the Clerk’s Office with details of the recording, including names, charges, and a case number. Each record costs $1.25 per page plus a $5 charge for certified records. However, the Clerk of Courts’ Office will charge an additional $5 search fee if the case number is unknown. Residents should submit all requests to the following address:
Kenosha County Circuit Court Clerk
Kenosha County Courthouse
912 56th Street
Kenosha, WI 53140
Phone: (262) 653-2664
How to Obtain Kenosha County Criminal Court Case Records
Kenosha County criminal court records are obtainable from the County Clerk of Courts. Parties may submit written requests that contain all known record details by sending mails or contacting the office in person. Record seekers should note that the Clerk of Courts Office will charge a $5 search fee if the request does not contain a case number. Interested parties should forward requests to the:
Kenosha County Circuit Court Clerk
Kenosha County Courthouse
912 56th Street
Kenosha, WI 53140
Phone: (262) 653-2664
What are Kenosha County Vital Records?
Kenosha County vital records contain details of life events, such as marriages, divorces, births, and deaths. Vital records are created and preserved by different government agencies that allow inspections and issue copies to interested requestors. Kenosha vital records are obtainable from the county Clerk of Courts, the Wisconsin Vital Records Office, or the Kenosha County Register of Deeds.
Where and How to Obtain Kenosha County Divorce Records
The Kenosha County Clerk of Courts keeps records of all county divorces. Interested persons may request Kenosha County divorce decrees by mail, fax, or in-person. The Clerk of Courts Office charges a $5 search fee for each record.
Mail requestors must send applications containing record details, including the divorced persons’ names, divorce date, and city of divorce. In-person requestors must also provide these details at the Clerk of Courts Office. All requests for Kenosha divorce decrees should be submitted to the following address:
Kenosha County Clerk of Courts
Kenosha County Courthouse
912 56th Street
Kenosha, WI 53140
Phone: (262) 653-2664
Fax: (262) 653-2435
Hours: 8:00 am to 5:00 pm
Residents may request Kenosha County divorce certificates from the Wisconsin Vital Records Office. The office maintains copies of divorce records created since October 1907 and entertains mail and in-person requests. Records are available as certified and uncertified copies.
Although certified and uncertified copies contain the same information, Wisconsin law restricts access to certified copies. The Vital Records Office only processes certified copy requests from the following requestors:
- Either person named on the certificate
- The person’s parent, child, sibling, or grandparent
- The person’s guardian or legal custodian
- A person authorized to represent any of the above eligible requestors
- Anyone who can prove that the record is necessary to determine or protect a personal or property right
Other ineligible parties may request uncertified copies. However, these copies are marked as informational and are not suitable for legal or identification purposes. All interested requestors should submit completed copies of the Wisconsin Divorce Certificate Application filled with the full names of both parties, location of divorce, and date of divorce. The first copy costs $20, while additional copies of the same record cost $3 if requested at the same time. Mail requests are payable by checks or money orders made out to “State of Wis. Vital Records”. In-person requestors may use cash, money orders, checks, and credit cards from Visa, Discover, or MasterCard.
Requests for uncertified copies may require up to one month of processing. However, certified copy requests may take two business hours for in-person applications or two weeks for mail orders. Residents ordering certified copies must also provide proof of identification as described on the application. All requests should be submitted as follows:
Mail Requests
Wisconsin Vital Records Office
P.O. Box 309
Madison, WI 53701
In-Person Requests
Wisconsin Vital Records Office
1 West Wilson Street
Room 160
Madison, WI 53703
Where and How to Get Public Kenosha County Marriage Records
The Kenosha County Register of Deeds maintains county marriage records and provides copies to record seekers. Persons interested in these copies may submit mail or in-person requests. To order by mail, the requestor must complete a marriage certificate application with the full names of both spouses, the marriage date, and the location of marriage. The first copy of a Kenosha County marriage record costs $20, while additional copies cost $3 each. Payment is acceptable via money orders payable to “Register of Deeds”.
The Register of Deeds issues certified and uncertified copies of Kenosha marriage certificates. Uncertified copies are printed on plain paper, available to all requestors, and are not valid for legal purposes. On the other hand, certified copies are legal documents printed on security paper and only available to the following persons:
- Either party named on the certificate
- Either party’s child, parent, grandparent, or sibling
- Either party’s guardian or legal custodian
- An attorney or other authorized representative of any of the above parties
- A requester with proof that the certificate is necessary to demonstrate a property or personal right.
Requests for certified copies require identification as stated on the application form.
Interested parties may submit mail or in-person requests to the following addresses:
Mail and In-Person Requests
Kenosha County Register of Deeds
1010 56th Street
Kenosha, WI 53140
Hours: 8:00 am to 5:00 pm
In-Person Requests Only
Kenosha County Register of Deeds
19600 75th Street
Bristol, WI 53104
Hours: 8:00 am to 12:00 pm and 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm
Where and How to Find Kenosha County Birth Records
Kenosha County birth records are obtainable from the county’s Register of Deeds. Wisconsin law allows the general public to obtain uncertified copies but restricts access to certified copies. The Register of Deeds only processes certified copy requests from the following persons:
- The subject named on the record
- The subject’s current spouse, current domestic partner, sibling, child, or grandparent
- The subject’s parent with parental rights if named on the birth certificate
- The subject’s guardian or legal custodian
- An authorized representative of the aforementioned persons
- A person with proof of a personal or property right interest in the record
The first copy of a Kenosha County birth certificate costs $20, while each additional copy of the same record costs $3 if requested with the first. Mail requestors should complete the birth record application and submit it with appropriate identification. While mail applications require money orders made out to "Register of Deeds", in-person requestors may use cash. All interested parties may forward requests as appropriate:
Mail and In-Person Requests
Kenosha County Register of Deeds
1010 56th Street
Kenosha, WI 53140
Hours: 8:00 am to 5:00 pm
In-Person Requests Only
Kenosha County Register of Deeds
19600 75th Street
Bristol, WI 53104
Hours: 8:00 am to 12:00 pm and 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm
Where and How to Find Kenosha County Death Records
The Kenosha County Register of Deeds provides public access to death records. The office entertains mail and in-person requests for certified and uncertified copies. However, certified copies are only obtainable by:
- The decedent's sibling, child, grandparent, current spouse, or domestic partner
- The decedent’s parent with current parental rights if listed on the death certificate
- The decedent’s legal custodian or guardian
- Any of the above persons’ authorized representatives
- Anyone with demonstrable personal or property right interest in the record
All mail requests for Kenosha County marriage certificates require completed copies of the death certificate application. The Register of Deeds charges $20 for the first copy and $3 for each additional copy. Persons requesting certified copies must provide an acceptable means of identification as described on the application. All requests should be submitted as follows:
Mail and In-Person Requests
Kenosha County Register of Deeds
1010 56th Street
Kenosha, WI 53140
Hours: 8:00 am to 5:00 pm
In-Person Requests Only
Kenosha County Register of Deeds
19600 75th Street
Bristol, WI 53104
Hours: 8:00 am to 12:00 pm and 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm
Are Property Records Open to the Public in Kenosha County?
Kenosha county public records are open to the public, in accordance with the Wisconsin Freedom of Information Act. Persons interested in inspecting and copying property records of Kenosha County can do so by submitting a request to the Kenosha County Register of Deeds.
Where and How to Find Property Records in Kenosha County
The Kenosha Register of Deeds is responsible for filing, recording, and issuing property-related instruments and documents in the county. Requesters can obtain these records in person or online. Anyone can obtain copies of Kenosha public records by contacting the office of the Register at:
Kenosha County Courthouse
1010 56th Street
Kenosha, WI 53140
Phone: (262) 653-2444
Kenosha County Center
19600 75th Street
Bristol, WI 53104
People can visit the office of the Register of Deeds during weekdays, from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Copies of recorded property documents cost $2 for the first page and $1 for each additional page, while copies of plats cost $3 for each page. To obtain certified copies of requested documents, people may have to pay another $1 for each certified page. Property owners can register for the Land Notification program to prevent property-related fraud by monitoring a name or parcel for real estate activity.
How to Look Up Kenosha County Property Records
Kenosha County makes its property records available for purchase through its Landshark Website. To search the website, requesters may have to register to get a name and password for access. They may also have to make payments of prescribed fees with their credit cards to access Kenosha County property records. Requesters can download Kenosha County Subdivision Plats on the Landshark website using the Plat tab search option.
Kenosha County also makes available to the public the Property Inquiry portal to enable them to view information on properties such as assessments, sales, tax bills, and building data. In-person support is available to requesters at any of the following office locations of the Register of deeds:
Kenosha County Courthouse
1010 56th Street
Kenosha, WI 53140
Phone: (262) 653-2444
Kenosha County Center
19600 75th Street
Bristol, WI 53104
Location of Kenosha County Township Property Assessors
1314 West College Avenue
P.O. Box 2111
Appleton, WI 54912-2111
Phone: (920) 749-1995
Fax: (920) 731-4158
9915 39th Avenue
Pleasant Prairie, WI 53158
Phone: (262) 925-6707
1428 Midway Road
P.O. Box 415
Menasha, WI 54952-0415
Phone: (800) 770-3927
625 52nd Street
Room 107
Kenosha, WI 53140
Phone: (262) 653-4480
