Boise Busted Faces Legal Challenge Over Mugshot Posting Practices
The company operating the social media pages “Boise Busted,” which posts mugshots and arrest information from Ada County, Idaho, has filed a tort claim against the Ada County Sheriff’s Office alleging copyright violations led to significant advertising revenue losses. The claim, submitted on March 11, 2026, through the Boise law firm Stoel Rives, seeks damages for the suspension of its Facebook and Instagram accounts.
Copyright Dispute and Account Suspensions
Explore and Develop LLC, the entity behind Boise Busted, asserts that the Ada County Sheriff’s Office began submitting takedown notices to Facebook and Instagram (owned by Meta) in October 2025, claiming copyright infringement over the posted mugshots. According to the claim, Meta notified Boise Busted of “at least fourteen” such notices filed by the Sheriff’s Office. These notices resulted in the suspension of the Boise Busted Facebook page and, at times, its Instagram account.
Financial Impact of Suspensions
Boise Busted alleges that these suspensions caused substantial financial harm, resulting in a loss of “at least $233,549.80” in advertising revenue. While the Facebook page remains permanently suspended, the Instagram page was, as of Monday, March 23, 2026, still active, though featuring a reduced feed of mugshots. A website linked in the social media account’s bio also continues to display Ada County mugshots, categorized by “trending” and “most heinous” arrests.
Legal Basis of the Claim
The tort claim argues that the Ada County Sheriff’s Office does not have a registered copyright protecting its mugshots. However, the U.S. Copyright Office states that copyright protection exists automatically upon creation of a work and registration is voluntary.
Sheriff’s Office Response
The Ada County Sheriff’s Office has not yet responded to requests for comment regarding the tort claim. Emails sent to the Sheriff’s Office media line and spokesperson have gone unanswered.
Next Steps
Under Idaho code, the Ada County government has 90 days to respond to the tort claim before a potential lawsuit can be filed. The identity of the individuals behind Explore and Develop LLC remains unclear, as the company is not registered as a business in Idaho. Stoel Rives has not yet provided further information about its client.