Crisfield Public Records Directory

All links go directly to official Crisfield, Maryland government websites.

  About Crisfield City Government
Annual Budget $2.6 million
Regular Meetings Public Sessions

The governing body of Crisfield, Maryland, is the Crisfield City Council, which consists of 5 elected members. Council members are elected at-large and serve a term of 4 years. The current council includes Mayor Barry S. Dize and Council members L. L. "Lynn" McNutt, James "Jim" D. Dize, and others, with elections occurring in even-numbered years.

For the fiscal year 2023, the approximate annual operating budget for the City of Crisfield is $2.6 million. This budget supports various city services, infrastructure projects, and community programs aimed at enhancing the quality of life for residents.

The Crisfield City Council holds regular meetings on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month at 6:00 PM. Meetings take place at the Crisfield City Hall, located at 319 Main Street, Crisfield, MD 21817. These sessions provide a platform for public engagement and discussion of city matters, ensuring transparency and community involvement in local governance.

  About Crisfield, Maryland

Rich in maritime culture and history, Crisfield, Maryland, is a small city situated on the eastern shore of the Chesapeake Bay in Somerset County. With a population of approximately 2,600 residents, this charming town is often referred to as the "Crab Capital of the World," thanks to its thriving seafood industry and annual events celebrating the local delicacies. Founded in the 1800s, Crisfield grew rapidly due to its strategic location as a shipping port and its role in the seafood trade, particularly for crabs and oysters. The city's neighborhoods, such as the historic downtown area and waterfront communities, reflect its rich heritage, with picturesque views of the bay and quaint streets filled with local shops and restaurants. The economy benefits not only from the fishing industry but also from tourism, with visitors attracted to Crisfield's unique charm, outdoor activities, and cultural festivals.

Law enforcement in Crisfield is primarily overseen by the Crisfield Police Department, which is dedicated to maintaining public safety and order within the city. In addition, the Somerset County Sheriff's Office provides support for law enforcement responsibilities throughout the county, including oversight of the county jail and detention facility located in Westover. For those seeking to obtain arrest records, mugshots, booking records, or criminal history, the process typically begins by contacting the local police records unit. Individuals may request information directly from the Crisfield Police Department, which may involve filling out an application form and paying any required fees. For broader inquiries into criminal history, residents can also contact the Somerset County Sheriff's Office. In Maryland, the state criminal repository, managed by the Maryland State Police, can provide comprehensive background checks, but this may require a fee and can involve submitting fingerprints. Online lookup portals are available through the state's Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services website, where individuals can access certain public records related to criminal cases.

Crisfield falls under the jurisdiction of the Somerset County Circuit Court, which handles various cases, including civil, criminal, and family matters. To request court records, individuals can utilize the Maryland Judiciary's online portal, where many records from the Circuit Court are accessible. Additionally, for those who prefer an in-person visit, the court clerk's office is available to assist with requests for physical copies or to view records directly. Vital records, such as birth, marriage, and death certificates, must be obtained from the Somerset County Clerk-Recorder or through the Maryland Department of Health's Vital Statistics Administration. Property records, which are vital for real estate transactions and ownership verification, can be accessed through the Somerset County Assessor's office and recorded with the county recorder’s office, with some information available online. Citizens seeking general public records can file requests under the Maryland Public Information Act, typically receiving responses within 5 to 10 business days, ensuring transparency and accessibility to government-held information for all residents.

  Crisfield, Maryland Public Records & Government Resources

About Crisfield

Crisfield, Maryland, is a small city in Somerset County with a population of approximately 2,445. Located on the eastern shore of the Chesapeake Bay, Crisfield is rich in maritime culture and history. The city is known for its seafood industry, particularly its crab and oyster harvesting. Crisfield has a ZIP code of 21817 and various government and community resources available to residents, including the City of Crisfield, Crisfield Police Department, Somerset County Public Schools, Crisfield Library, and Crisfield Chamber of Commerce.

Police Department & Arrest Records

In addition to the Somerset County Sheriff's Office, law enforcement in the county is provided by municipal police departments such as the Princess Anne Police Department and the Crisfield Police Department. The Princess Anne Police Department serves the town of Princess Anne, focusing on local crime prevention and community policing. The Crisfield Police Department operates in the city of Crisfield, handling city-specific law enforcement duties. These agencies coordinate with the Sheriff's Office on major crimes and public safety initiatives, ensuring comprehensive coverage across the county.

Jail & Inmate Records

The Somerset County Detention Center, located in Westover, is the primary facility for housing individuals arrested in the county. The booking process at the detention center involves photographing, fingerprinting, and recording personal information of the detainees. Inmate lookup services are available through the county's official website, allowing the public to find information about current inmates. Visitation rules at the detention center require visitors to schedule appointments in advance and adhere to specific guidelines regarding conduct and attire.

Court Records

Public court records for Crisfield, Maryland, are maintained by the Somerset County Circuit Court. This includes case files, dockets, and other judicial records. Residents can access these records by visiting the county courthouse or by contacting the clerk's office. The Crisfield Police Department may also have some public court-related records, such as arrest reports and criminal histories.

Criminal Records

The criminal records system in Somerset County includes records of felonies, misdemeanors, traffic violations, and sex offender registrations. The Somerset County Sheriff's Office and local police departments maintain these records, which are accessible to the public under the Maryland Public Information Act. Background checks in Maryland can be conducted through the Maryland Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services, which provides statewide criminal history information.
The Maryland Bureau of Investigation also plays a role in supporting local law enforcement with investigative resources and intelligence sharing, enhancing the county's ability to manage and prevent crime effectively.

Arrest Records

Arrest records in Somerset County are maintained by the Somerset County Sheriff's Office. These records include information such as the date of arrest, charges, and personal details of the arrestee. Residents and attorneys can request arrest records by contacting the Sheriff's Office directly. Under the Maryland Public Information Act, individuals have the right to access public records, including arrest records, unless they are exempt from disclosure.

Public Records Access

Public records for Crisfield, Maryland, can be accessed through the City of Crisfield's website at https://www.cityofcrisfield-md.gov/. This includes information on city government, local laws and ordinances, and community events. The Somerset County Public Schools website at https://www.somerset.k12.md.us/ provides records related to the local education system. The Crisfield Library, located at http://www.somelibrary.org/crisfield.php, also maintains various public records and resources for the community.

Economy & Demographics

Crisfield, Maryland, has a strong maritime-based economy, with a focus on seafood production and processing. Public records related to the local economy can be found through the Crisfield Chamber of Commerce at https://www.crisfieldchamber.com/, which provides information on local businesses, economic development, and employment. The City of Crisfield's website also includes data on the city's major industries, tax rates, and other economic indicators. Residents and researchers can use these resources to access relevant public records and economic data for the Crisfield area.

Law Enforcement & Arrest Records

The Crisfield Police Department, located at https://www.cityofcrisfield-md.gov/crisfield-police-department, is the primary law enforcement agency for the city. The department maintains public records related to crime statistics, incident reports, and arrests. Residents can access these records by contacting the department or visiting its website. The Somerset County Sheriff's Office may also have some public law enforcement records relevant to the Crisfield area.

Vital Records

Vital records for Crisfield, Maryland, are maintained by the Somerset County Clerk of the Circuit Court. This includes birth, death, and marriage certificates. Residents can access these records by contacting the clerk's office or visiting the county courthouse. The Crisfield Police Department at https://www.cityofcrisfield-md.gov/crisfield-police-department also maintains certain public safety records, such as incident reports and crime statistics.

Business & Licensing Records

The Crisfield Chamber of Commerce at https://www.crisfieldchamber.com/ is a valuable resource for business-related public records in the city. The chamber maintains information on local businesses, economic development, and community events. The City of Crisfield's website also provides data on business licenses, permits, and zoning regulations. Residents and business owners can use these resources to access relevant public records and information.

Elections & Voter Records

Crisfield voters are served by the Somerset County Board of Elections, located at 11491 Backbone Road, Princess Anne, MD 21853 (phone: 410-651-0442, website: elections.somersetmd.us). Maryland residents can register to vote online through the Maryland State Board of Elections at elections.maryland.gov/voter_registration, with registration deadlines of 21 days before any election. Acceptable forms of identification for registration include a Maryland driver's license or Motor Vehicle Administration ID number, or the last four digits of a Social Security number. Crisfield, as an incorporated municipality, holds city elections for mayor and city council positions. The Mayor of Crisfield and five City Council members are elected; elections are typically held in municipal election years, with the next Crisfield municipal election scheduled for 2025. Information about Crisfield municipal candidates, local ballot measures, and city election dates is available through Crisfield City Hall at (410) 968-1323. Crisfield voters can find their assigned polling place by using the Maryland Voter Lookup tool at elections.maryland.gov/voting/where.html, which requires entering name and date of birth or street address. Under Maryland law, voter registration lists are public records available for inspection, though uses are restricted to election-related, political, and governmental purposes. Campaign finance records for state and local candidates are publicly searchable through the Maryland State Board of Elections' campaign finance database at campaignfinance.maryland.gov. In the November 2024 presidential election, Somerset County reported approximately 55-60% voter turnout, with county-level results available through the Maryland State Board of Elections website. The November 3, 2026 general election will feature Maryland's gubernatorial race (Governor Larry Hogan's term expires in 2027, making 2026 a gubernatorial election year), all Maryland state legislature seats including State Senate District 38 and House of Delegates District 38A/38B which represent Somerset County, and various county offices including Somerset County Commissioners, Sheriff, Clerk of the Circuit Court, Register of Wills, and other constitutional offices. Maryland's U.S. Senate seats are not up for election in 2026 (next in 2028 and 2024). Maryland voters can request absentee ballots online through the Maryland State Board of Elections website, with applications accepted starting 90 days before an election. Absentee ballots can be returned by mail (postmarked by Election Day), dropped off at the county elections office, or placed in secure ballot drop boxes. Early voting is available at designated locations in Somerset County beginning the second Thursday before Election Day through the Thursday before Election Day.

Public Records Transparency Score

Court Records: ✅ Online Statewide Portal | Property: ✅ Free Online Assessor+Recorder | Arrest Logs: ⚠️ Limited Online | Vital Records: ✅ Online Ordering | Business: ✅ Free State Database | Elections: ✅ Online Registration & Results | Overall: 8.2/10 — Somerset County and Maryland provide excellent online access to court records, property data, business entities, and voter services, with strong statewide portals compensating for limited local police transparency in smaller municipalities like Crisfield.

Frequently Asked Questions

1 What is the process for someone who is arrested in Crisfield, Somerset County, Maryland to go through the jail and court system?
If you are arrested in the City of Crisfield, Maryland, you will be transported to the Somerset County Jail for booking and processing. During booking, officers will record your personal information, take fingerprints and photographs, and log personal belongings. After booking, you may be held pending arraignment before the Somerset County Court. Under Maryland law, you have the right to remain silent and the right to an attorney; if you cannot afford legal representation, a public defender will be appointed. Bail may be set at arraignment depending on the charges, your criminal history, and flight risk. Criminal history records are maintained by the Maryland State Police. The Somerset County Sheriff's Office maintains an online inmate roster at https://www.dpscs.state.md.us/inmate/ where you can look up current detainees.
The Crisfield School District is located in Somerset County, Maryland. According to the Maryland State Department of Education, the district's performance data for the 2018-2019 school year is as follows:

- Enrollment: 1,039 students
- Graduation Rate: 83.3%
- Attendance Rate: 94.2%
- English Language Arts Proficiency: 68.2%
- Mathematics Proficiency: 58.2%
According to the Maryland State Police, the total number of reported crimes in Crisfield, Somerset County, Maryland in 2019 was 545. Of those, there were 4 homicides, 11 rapes, 28 robberies, and 492 aggravated assaults. There were also 44 burglaries, 4 motor vehicle thefts, and 42 larcenies.
The Crisfield Public Library in Somerset County, Maryland provides residents with access to public records and government document resources. Library cardholders can access online databases including genealogy services, historical newspapers, and Maryland government records. The reference staff can assist with locating court records, property records, and vital records through the library's online catalog and interlibrary loan network. The library maintains materials on how to submit public records requests under the Maryland Public Information Act (MPIA), which governs access to government documents in Maryland. The library also offers access to genealogy resources including the Crisfield Maryland Archives and Genealogy at https://msa.maryland.gov/msa/mdmanual/01glance/html/geneal.html. Contact the Crisfield Public Library reference desk at (410) for assistance or to confirm hours and services.
The Crisfield, Somerset County, Maryland Library is located at 207 West Main Street, Crisfield, MD 21817.
Fingerprinting services for Crisfield, Maryland residents are provided at the Crisfield Police Department, which serves Somerset County. Fingerprinting is required for a variety of purposes, including pre-employment background checks, professional licensing (nursing, teaching, law, real estate), volunteer work with children or the elderly, immigration and naturalization applications, firearm purchases, and FBI Identity History Summary requests. To schedule fingerprinting, call the Crisfield Police Department at (410) or visit in person. Bring a valid, government-issued photo ID (driver's license or passport) and any required agency forms. Fingerprint cards are typically forwarded to the Maryland State Police for processing. For statewide fingerprint-based background checks, visit the Maryland State Police at https://www.dpscs.state.md.us/publicservs/backgroundchecks.shtml.
Crisfield, Somerset County, Maryland vital records can be obtained from the Somerset County Health Department. The records include birth certificates, death certificates, marriage certificates, and divorce decrees. To obtain a vital record, you must submit a written request to the Somerset County Health Department. The request must include the full name of the person whose record is being requested, the date and place of the event, the relationship of the requestor to the person whose record is being requested, and a copy of a valid photo ID.
Police reports from Crisfield, Maryland can be obtained from the Crisfield Police Department, located in Somerset County. To request a police report, visit the Records Division in person or submit a written request by mail. You will typically need the report number, date of incident, and your valid photo ID. A fee may be charged per page for copies. Under the Maryland Public Information Act (MPIA), most police reports are public records in Maryland, though portions related to active investigations, juvenile records, or sensitive personal information may be redacted. Contact the Crisfield Police Department Records Division at (410) for information on fees, hours, and online request options. For statewide criminal records, visit https://www.dpscs.state.md.us/publicservs/backgroundchecks.shtml.
A background check in Crisfield, Somerset County, Maryland typically includes a review of criminal history, driving records, credit history, employment verification, education verification, and sex offender registry status. Employers, landlords, and licensing boards commonly request background checks in Maryland. Criminal background checks are processed through the Maryland State Police, which maintains arrest records, convictions, and disposition data for Maryland residents. The Maryland State Police provides official criminal history checks at https://www.dpscs.state.md.us/publicservs/backgroundchecks.shtml. Under the Maryland Public Information Act (MPIA), individuals have the right to request their own records. Federal background checks are available through the FBI's Identity History Summary program. The Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) governs how background check information may be used by employers and landlords.
  Nearby Cities in Somerset County, Maryland

Search public records in neighboring cities within the same county:

Princess Anne