Richmond Public Records Directory

All links go directly to official Richmond, Michigan government websites.

About Richmond

Nestled in the heart of Macomb County, Richmond, Michigan, offers a unique blend of small-town charm and vibrant community spirit, with a population of approximately 5,800 residents. Founded in the mid-19th century, Richmond has a rich history and serves as a hub for local businesses, government services, and community events. The city's central location, just north of Metro Detroit, provides easy access to a variety of amenities and recreational opportunities.

Police Department & Arrest Records

Richmond, Macomb County is served by several law enforcement agencies, including the Macomb County Sheriff's Office and municipal police departments such as the Warren Police Department, Sterling Heights Police Department, and Clinton Township Police Department. Each department has jurisdiction within its respective city or township, handling local law enforcement duties. These agencies collaborate on major crimes and emergencies, ensuring comprehensive coverage and public safety throughout the county.

Jail & Inmate Records

The Macomb County Jail, located in Mount Clemens, is the primary detention facility for the county. It handles the booking process for individuals arrested in the county, where they are photographed and fingerprinted. Inmate information can be accessed through the Macomb County Sheriff's Office website, which provides a lookup tool for recent arrests. Visitation rules are specific, requiring appointments and adherence to strict guidelines. The bond process in Michigan allows for cash or surety bonds, and bail can be posted at the jail or through approved agencies.

Court Records

The 42nd District Court, located in Richmond, Michigan, serves as the local judicial authority for the city and surrounding communities. The court handles a variety of civil and criminal cases, including traffic violations, misdemeanors, and small claims. Court records, including case files and dockets, can be accessed through the Michigan Court Records Search (https://mjieducation.mi.gov/crs/public-search).

Criminal Records

The criminal records system in Macomb County includes records of felonies, misdemeanors, traffic violations, and the sex offender registry. The Macomb County Sheriff's Office and local police departments maintain these records, while the Michigan State Police provide statewide background checks. Residents can request criminal records through the Michigan Internet Criminal History Access Tool (ICHAT), which offers a comprehensive background check service. The Michigan Bureau of Investigation supports these efforts by providing additional resources and data management.

Arrest Records

Arrest records in Macomb County are maintained by the Macomb County Sheriff's Office and local police departments. These records can be requested by residents and attorneys through the Sheriff's Office, typically requiring a formal request under the Michigan Freedom of Information Act. A Macomb County arrest record includes the individual's name, date of arrest, charges, and booking information. The records provide transparency and are part of the public record unless sealed by court order.

Public Records Access

The City of Richmond maintains a comprehensive public records system, providing residents and visitors with access to a wide range of information. The Richmond Michigan City Clerk's office (http://www.cityofrichmond.net/125/City-Clerk) serves as the central repository for municipal records, including city council meeting minutes, ordinances, and various permits and licenses. Additionally, the Richmond Michigan Library (http://www.cityofrichmond.net/191/Lois-Wagner-Memorial-Library) houses a collection of local historical documents and resources for research and reference.

Economy & Demographics

Richmond, Michigan, has a diverse and thriving economy, with a mix of industrial, commercial, and agricultural sectors. The city is home to a number of manufacturing and distribution companies, as well as a vibrant small business community. The Richmond Michigan Economic Development Corporation (http://www.cityofrichmond.net/174/Economic-Development) works to attract new businesses and support the growth of existing enterprises within the city. Economic data, including employment statistics and major employers, can be found on the city's website and through the U.S. Census Bureau.

Law Enforcement & Arrest Records

The Richmond Michigan Police Department (http://www.cityofrichmond.net/165/Police) is responsible for maintaining public safety and enforcing local laws within the city. The department handles a range of law enforcement activities, from responding to emergency calls to conducting criminal investigations. Public records related to law enforcement, such as incident reports and arrest records, can be obtained through the Michigan State Police Criminal History Record Information (https://www.michigan.gov/msp/services/chr).

Vital Records

The Richmond Michigan City Clerk's office (http://www.cityofrichmond.net/125/City-Clerk) is responsible for maintaining vital records for the city, including birth, marriage, and death certificates. Residents can obtain certified copies of these records by visiting the clerk's office or submitting a request online. The office also processes various permits and licenses, such as business licenses, dog licenses, and building permits.

Business & Licensing Records

The City of Richmond is home to a diverse array of businesses, ranging from local mom-and-pop shops to larger commercial enterprises. The Richmond Michigan City Clerk's office (http://www.cityofrichmond.net/125/City-Clerk) maintains a business registry and handles the issuance of business licenses. The Richmond Michigan Economic Development Corporation (http://www.cityofrichmond.net/174/Economic-Development) also provides resources and support for businesses looking to establish or expand operations within the city.

Elections & Voter Records

Richmond voters and election administration are served by the Macomb County Clerk/Register of Deeds Elections Division, located at 40 N. Main Street, 3rd Floor, Mount Clemens, MI 48043 (phone: 586-469-5209, website: macombgov.org/elections). This office oversees all aspects of voter registration, ballot preparation, and election administration for Richmond and all other Macomb County communities. Michigan residents can register to vote online through the Michigan Voter Information Center at michigan.gov/vote, which also provides tools to check registration status, view sample ballots, and track absentee ballot applications. Voters must register at least 15 days before an election, though Michigan also offers same-day voter registration at the local clerk's office or polling place with proof of residency. Acceptable ID includes a Michigan driver's license, state ID, or other government-issued photo identification. Richmond holds municipal elections for mayor and city council positions on odd-numbered years, typically in November. The next Richmond city elections are scheduled for November 2025, when voters will decide city council seats and potentially the mayoral position depending on term schedules. Richmond City Clerk's office at 36045 Park Street (586-727-3902) provides information on local candidate filings and city ballot proposals. Richmond voters find their assigned polling locations through the Michigan Voter Information Center at michigan.gov/vote by entering their address, or by contacting the Macomb County Elections Division. In Michigan, voter registration lists are public records available for purchase by qualifying organizations, though individual voter history is protected. Campaign finance disclosures for state and county candidates are searchable through the Michigan Secretary of State at michigan.gov/campaignfinance, while local candidate finance reports are filed with the county clerk. Precinct-level election results are published by the County Clerk after certification. In the November 2024 presidential election, Macomb County reported voter turnout of approximately 68-70% of registered voters, reflecting high engagement in the county. Looking ahead to November 3, 2026, Richmond and Macomb County voters will decide Michigan's gubernatorial race (Governor Gretchen Whitmer's term expires in 2026), all Michigan House of Representatives seats, multiple statewide offices including Secretary of State and Attorney General, Macomb County offices including County Executive and commissioners, and potentially state Senate seats depending on district rotation. No U.S. Senate seat from Michigan is scheduled for the 2026 ballot. Richmond voters may also see local proposals or school board elections. Michigan voters can request absentee ballots without providing a reason under current state law. Absentee ballot applications are available through the Michigan Voter Information Center online, by contacting the Richmond City Clerk, or through the County Elections Division, with completed ballots due by 8:00 PM on Election Day.

Public Records Transparency Score

Court Records: ✅ Online Statewide Portal | Property: ✅ Free Online Assessor+Recorder | Arrest Logs: ✅ Online Inmate Roster | Vital Records: ✅ Online Ordering | Business: ✅ Free State Database | Elections: ✅ Online Registration & Results | Overall: 9.0/10 — Macomb County and Michigan provide excellent digital access to most public records with comprehensive online portals for court records, property searches, business entities, and voter information, though some vital records require state-level processing fees.

Frequently Asked Questions

1 What is the process for someone who is arrested in Richmond, Macomb County, Michigan to go through the jail and court system?
If you are arrested in the City of Richmond, Michigan, you will be transported to the Macomb 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 Macomb County Court. Under Michigan 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 Michigan State Police. The Macomb County Sheriff's Office maintains an online inmate roster at https://mdocweb.state.mi.us/otis2/otis2.aspx where you can look up current detainees.
The Richmond Community Schools district serves the city of Richmond, Macomb County, Michigan. According to the Michigan Department of Education, the district had an overall score of 68.2 out of 100 for the 2018-2019 school year. This score is based on a variety of factors, including student performance on state assessments, graduation rates, and other measures of student success.
According to the Macomb County Sheriff's Office, the total number of reported crimes in Richmond, Macomb County, Michigan in 2019 was 1,845. Of those, 1,717 were property crimes and 128 were violent crimes.
The Richmond Public Library in Macomb County, Michigan provides residents with access to public records and government document resources. Library cardholders can access online databases including genealogy services, historical newspapers, and Michigan 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 Michigan Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), which governs access to government documents in Michigan. The library also offers access to genealogy resources including the Richmond Michigan Archives and Genealogy at https://www.michigan.gov/libraryofmichigan/0,2351,7-160-54574---,00.html. Contact the Richmond Public Library reference desk at (586) for assistance or to confirm hours and services.
The Richmond, Macomb County, Michigan Library is located at 36164 Division Rd, Richmond, MI 48062.
Fingerprinting services for Richmond, Michigan residents are provided at the Richmond Police Department, which serves Macomb 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 Richmond Police Department at (586) 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 Michigan State Police for processing. For statewide fingerprint-based background checks, visit the Michigan State Police at https://www.michigan.gov/msp/0,4643,7-123-1589_3503_4654---,00.html.
In order to obtain vital records from Richmond, Macomb County, Michigan, you must contact the Macomb County Clerk's Office.

The vital records available from the Macomb County Clerk's Office include birth certificates, death certificates, marriage licenses, and divorce decrees. You will need to provide proof of identity and a fee in order to obtain these records.
Police reports from Richmond, Michigan can be obtained from the Richmond Police Department, located in Macomb 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 Michigan Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), most police reports are public records in Michigan, though portions related to active investigations, juvenile records, or sensitive personal information may be redacted. Contact the Richmond Police Department Records Division at (586) for information on fees, hours, and online request options. For statewide criminal records, visit https://www.michigan.gov/msp/0,4643,7-123-1589_3503_4654---,00.html.
A background check in Richmond, Macomb County, Michigan 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 Michigan. Criminal background checks are processed through the Michigan State Police, which maintains arrest records, convictions, and disposition data for Michigan residents. The Michigan State Police provides official criminal history checks at https://www.michigan.gov/msp/0,4643,7-123-1589_3503_4654---,00.html. Under the Michigan Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), 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.