If you are arrested in any of the five boroughs of New York City and taken to the local precinct a police officer will interview you and obtain what is formally called your “pedigree” information such as your name, address, date of birth, and social security number.

The police will also voucher your personal property such as jewelry, money, house keys, medication, wallet or purse, etc.  If you have contraband the police will also voucher it and it may be used as evidence against you for possession of the contraband.  Make sure you get a copy of the voucher form or at least the voucher number.

You will be fingerprinted and photographed if you are charged with a felony or misdemeanor pursuant to the New York City Administrative Code, Vehicle and Traffic Law, or Penal Law.

If you are charged with only a violation such as disorderly conduct you will probably only be photographed and not fingerprinted.  In its sole discretion, the police officer at the precinct may issue a Desk Appearance Ticket (DAT).  That means you will be released at the precinct and not take to central booking. You will then have to appear in court on the dates specified in the DAT.