CT SB00454

Expands automatic erasure of criminal records to include cases dismissed prior to arraignment, charges dropped before arraignment, and false arrests due to mistaken identity, with erasure occurring immediately upon dismissal or dropping of charges.

Requires courts to notify subjects of erased records within 60 days and mandates destruction of fingerprints, photographs, and physical descriptions for false arrests or charges dismissed due to lack of probable cause.

Establishes automatic erasure of misdemeanor convictions under section 21a-279 (drug possession) if the person has no other arrests within five years following conviction and is not known to have illegally sold or possessed controlled substances during that period.

Requires destruction and purging of DNA samples and DNA profiles subject to erasure in accordance with section 54-102l.

Mandates release of persons charged solely with misdemeanor drug possession violations (section 21a-279) upon execution of a written promise to appear, without special conditions or financial bonds required.