Is a website which publishes detainee mugshots within their rights to also post the detainee’s physical address?
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Is a website which publishes detainee mugshots within their rights to also post the detainee’s physical address?
I was arrested for failure to appear about 14 months ago. Yesterday, out of boredom I typed my name into a search engine and my photo came up on a couple of mugshot websites. That doesn’t bother me but what does is the fact that with that my address at that time was also displayed. My family still lives there. Are these sites within their rights to display my exact address?
Asked on January 24, 2012 under Criminal Law, Wisconsin
Answers:
FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 12 years ago | Contributor
Good question. The posting of mug shots of individuals who have been arrested and convicted of a crime would seemingly be allowed by the entity that is doing the posting.
However, the posting of the physical address of the person who has been arrested in conjunction with the mug shot may be deemed in violation of that person's right to privacy. However, by analogy, with telephone books people are listed in the books with an actual telephone number and address unless they request to be unlisted.
I see your point about the apparent display of your mug shot and mailing address. However, if the information is accurate and the websites are designed for a public benefit, there is a good chance that what was posted as to you would not give rise for a factual and legal basis for a lawsuit by you against the website.
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