Data You Give Us Directly
Search Queries
A name or location entered into a search tool is sent directly to the outside provider that operates that tool. The provider processes the query and returns its results. Jefferson County Criminal History does not retain or log those search terms on its own systems.
Messages and Contact Submissions
An email sent to us may be retained so a response can be prepared. Messages remain within the organization unless disclosure is required by a valid legal obligation.
Data We Gather Automatically
When a page loads, the server automatically receives basic technical information about the visit:
- Page-view timestamps
- Browser name and version
- Device type and operating system
- Pages viewed and time spent on them
- The referring website, when available
- The IP address assigned to the device
Cookies and Analytics
Cookies are small files stored on a visitor's device. They help show which pages receive traffic and where visits end. Analytics providers combine that usage information for reporting. A browser can block cookies, although some website features may then work differently.
What We Do With This Data
- Routing a search request to the correct partner
- Finding and repairing technical problems
- Maintaining website speed and availability
- Understanding which pages visitors use
- Displaying advertising that may reflect visitor interests
No Criminal-Record Data on File
Jefferson County Criminal History does not maintain, assemble, or sell a database of personal criminal records. It provides general directions to records held by the Jefferson County Sheriff's Office, Wisconsin Circuit Court, Wisconsin Department of Justice Crime Information Bureau, and Wisconsin Sex Offender Registry. The website is not a consumer reporting agency under the Fair Credit Reporting Act, and visitor data is not used to create consumer reports or third-party criminal files.
Third-Party Search Partners
Outside companies power the search boxes. Information submitted to a tool is handled under that provider's privacy policy, not this policy. Each partner controls its own retention and disclosure practices. Review those terms before entering a query.
Links to Other Websites
Links may lead to the Jefferson County Sheriff's Office, Wisconsin court portals, state agencies, legal-aid organizations, or third-party search tools. Once a visitor follows an external link, the destination's privacy policy governs. Review it before providing personal details.
Advertising partners may use their own systems to track activity across websites and select targeted ads. We do not operate that tracking.
Who Might See Your Data
We do not sell personal data. Information may be received by:
- Analytics providers that measure traffic and performance
- Search partners that process visitor queries
- Advertising networks that place ads
- Government or law-enforcement bodies acting under a valid legal order
How We Protect Your Data
Standard safeguards are used for collected data, but no internet-connected service can promise perfect security. Reasonable steps reduce risk without guaranteeing that a breach will never occur.
Users Under 18
The website is intended for adults and does not knowingly collect personal information from anyone under 18. If a minor's information is identified, a deletion request may be made.
Your Data Rights
Rights may vary with a visitor's location. Wisconsin public records and criminal-history dissemination are governed in part by the Wisconsin Public Records Law, Wis. Stat. § 19.35, and Wis. Stat. § 165.83. Those laws govern public authorities and state criminal-history reporting; they do not turn this private website into a government custodian. Subject to applicable law, visitors may:
- Request deletion of eligible personal data
- Ask to correct inaccurate personal information
- Request a copy of personal information held about them
- Opt out of processing where applicable law provides that choice
Updates to This Policy
This policy may be revised. An updated version will appear on this page and will carry a new effective date.
Effective date: August 11, 2026