Sheriff's office going digital

The Sarasota County Sheriff's Office has automated the processing of fingerprint-based criminal history requests through the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE).

Citizens who need background checks for employment applications, volunteer screenings and other processes will use the new computer-based livescan technology installed at the same locations where this service has traditionally been offered: Sarasota County Jail, 2020 Main Street, Sarasota; and the South County Jail at the Venice Police Department, 1350 East Ridgewood Avenue, Venice.

The process has changed slightly, so the public should be aware of the following:
• Each applicant must have an ORI (Originating Agency number) or CRI (Controlling Agency number) from the company requesting the criminal history.

• Requesting agency must register with FDLE to receive electronic results.

• The cost of the livescan service is $15, cash only.

• Applicant must bring an official photo ID.

• Each applicant will receive a TCN number assigned by the livescan device to their criminal history request listed on their fingerprint card.

• Applicants must then access the FDLE’s online Civil Applicant Payment System (CAPS), enter the TCN number generated by the livescan and submit credit card information to begin the criminal history process.
The FDLE and FBI will not accept inked fingerprint hard copy cards as of April 1, 2012.

Contact Kurt Schultheis at [email protected].