The Georgia Technology Authority (GTA) is led by the state’s Chief Information Officer, who also serves as GTA’s Executive Director. The Office of Data Innovations, a small but highly effective team under GTA’s services, focuses on a variety of functions, including marketing, sales, relationship management, new product development, and end-user support. Led by the Director of Data Innovations, Ivan Sumter, this team is dedicated to providing convenient services not only to the general public but also to businesses and government agencies.

What is Georgia Felon Search?

Georgia Felon Search is a fast background search service that provides instant online results, which are directly emailed to constituents or business owners. Created in July 2009, this service allows individuals to receive a felony rap sheet instantly via email, eliminating the need to travel to a local office. “The need for this service became clear as I wanted to eliminate the necessity of visiting a brick-and-mortar location,” says Ivan Sumter, Director of Data Innovations. He adds, “GTA’s mission is not only to provide these convenient services to the public but also to educate them.” In line with this mission, GTA has reached out to the Georgia Association of Chiefs of Police to help raise awareness of this service.

Ivan and his team partnered with the Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) to create the online service. Information provided in the rap sheets comes directly from GBI and reflects any felony convictions reported to the county. Although the service offers a convenient alternative to visiting a police station or county building, it does have some limitations. For instance, if an individual completed a first-time offender’s program and had their felony conviction removed, that felony will not appear on the Georgia Felon Search. Additionally, it will also not appear on the rap sheet.

However, the primary goal of the service is to provide constituents with an affordable alternative to more detailed and expensive options. At $15 per search, it is a more cost-effective choice compared to its alternatives. “Georgia Felon Search is designed to give constituents a quick snapshot of a rap sheet for those looking to run a background check to protect their assets, loved ones, and themselves,” says Sumter. The service provides a fast and affordable way to obtain answers, as opposed to waiting days or weeks for a more expensive and detailed background check.

Perfect for Businesses!

The service is accessible not only to the general public but also to businesses. Under the guidance of Innovation Consultant DeQuanda Sanders, companies can establish a billing account. “This service is not only ideal for individuals who wish to conduct background checks on visitors to their home, potential dates, or even someone dating their child, but it also serves business owners who need to perform background checks on prospective employees without overspending,” explains DeQuanda. With a billing account, businesses can conduct unlimited searches and simply settle the payment at the end of the month. The primary audience for this service includes business owners, HR professionals, non-profit organizations, and state agencies. DeQuanda is open to discussing potential partnership opportunities. If a business is uncertain about whether this service meets their needs, DeQuanda states, “I am available to consult with any business to assess if this service is suitable for them. We can have a conversation over the phone, through email, or I can

even provide a live demonstration.” To establish a billing account, DeQuanda can be reached at dequanda.sanders@gta.ga.gov or by phone at 470-240-6409.

With 24/7 access and ease of use, Georgia Felon Search is a quick and straightforward option for those looking to run a felony background check. With just five steps, users can obtain a rap sheet instantly: First, visit felonsearch.ga.gov; then enter the individual’s information; verify the details; pay the $15 fee; and finally, receive the rap sheet. An online demo is also available for viewing.