If you’re looking through public arrest records on our site, you may run into abbreviations that seem confusing. This page helps explain some of the most common shorthand you’ll see, so you know exactly what each charge means.
Common Abbreviations and What They Mean
- DUI / DWI – Driving Under the Influence / Driving While Intoxicated. [source]
- BATTERY – Unlawful physical contact with another person.
- AGG – Aggravated. Means the charge was more serious (for example, AGG ASSAULT = Aggravated Assault).
- PROP – Property. Often used in theft-related charges (e.g., Theft of Prop).
- RCV – Receiving. Usually part of “Receiving Stolen Property.”
- POSS – Possession. Usually of drugs, alcohol, or firearms.
- FTA – Failure to Appear in court.
- VOP – Violation of Probation.
- DOM VIOL – Domestic Violence.
- RESIST ARR – Resisting Arrest.
- W/ DEATH – “With Death” — used when a charge involved someone’s death (e.g., “Assault w/ death”).
Why Are These Terms Shortened?
These terms are abbreviated in official databases to fit space limits or follow law enforcement terminology. While they may seem confusing at first, each has a full legal definition.
Need More Help?
If you come across a charge you don’t understand, feel free to contact us or try searching the full term in a reliable source like your state’s Department of Corrections or Justia Criminal Law.
This list is growing, and we update it as we find more abbreviations in public records.