What to Do If Your Loved One's Information Doesn't Appear on OTIS
Can't find your loved one on Michigan's OTIS database? That doesn't necessarily mean something is wrong or that information is being hidden. There are a few common explanations—and concrete steps you can take to find out what's going on.
OTIS only shows people currently under Michigan Department of Corrections (MDOC) jurisdiction or supervision - or those who have been within the last three years. That three-year window is key. If more than three years have passed since someone was last under MDOC supervision, they won't appear in OTIS. There's another possibility: legal removal. MDOC keeps offender information on OTIS for three years after discharge, then takes it down. The main reason you'd see information removed earlier is if the conviction was set aside or expunged by the sentencing court or by operation of law.
Note: If someone's OTIS record disappears sooner than expected, the conviction may have been set aside or expunged. Otherwise, OTIS keeps information for three years after discharge.
OTIS isn't always perfectly current. The database itself warns that location, status, and release-related details may be outdated. If you're making an important decision - planning travel, confirming custody, or figuring out next steps - don't rely on an OTIS search result (or lack of one) alone. Treat OTIS as a starting point. Verify critical information through an official source: contact MDOC directly, use the Michigan State Police Internet Criminal History Access Tool (ICHAT), or review the court file before acting on what you see.
- ✓ Confirm any critical details directly with the MDOC before you make plans or decisions.
- ✓ Check the Michigan State Police Internet Criminal History Access Tool (ICHAT) for criminal history information.
- ✓ Review the court file to verify what was ordered and what the current status is.
If you believe OTIS is showing inaccurate, outdated, or incomplete information, report it to the MDOC Office of Public Information and Communications at correctionsinfo@michigan.gov. For technical issues - trouble accessing the site or viewing information - contact mdocwebmaster@michigan.gov. Include enough identifying details to help them locate the correct record and understand what you think is wrong.
Sometimes the simplest answer is correct: OTIS removes information once three years have passed since discharge. If a conviction was set aside or expunged, the information can disappear sooner. Suspect either applies? Go beyond OTIS. Confirm through MDOC, ICHAT, or by reviewing the court file. Court paperwork is often the clearest way to verify whether something was expunged or set aside and what effect that has on public records.
Find an Inmate at Cotton Corr. Facility, MI
Search for a loved one and send messages and photos in minutes.
