Users' questions

When does the police submit a police report?

When does the police submit a police report?

When the police have completed the investigation of a possible crime, the officer in charge of the case submits a police report (paper referral) of the crime to the County Attorney’s office to determine if charges will be filed. Police may either arrest the suspect prior to submitting the report or submit the report without arresting the suspect.

Is the police report a public record in California?

This report provides details on police responses to citizen calls for assistance, reports of accidents or reports of crimes being committed. While police records are subject to state public records laws like the California Public Records Act, many types of police records are specifically exempt from disclosure.

Why are police reports used in criminal cases?

Because of this, many criminal cases can be heavily influenced by police reports. One of the main reasons that it is given such weight in court is it is the only evidence on the police officer’s side of the case.

Can a reporter ask for a copy of a police report?

Reporters can ask for a copy of a police report, but if the police decline to provide it they probably are within their rights to do so. This is why it’s important for a reporter to check the court record to see if criminal charges have been filed in a case.

When the police have completed the investigation of a possible crime, the officer in charge of the case submits a police report (paper referral) of the crime to the County Attorney’s office to determine if charges will be filed. Police may either arrest the suspect prior to submitting the report or submit the report without arresting the suspect.

Where can I find a police report and court records?

Public records may divulge the location and content of police records, including reports to local elected boards (governmental sources) that oversee police. Court records may also contain police records that were used to build a case for prosecution.

Because of this, many criminal cases can be heavily influenced by police reports. One of the main reasons that it is given such weight in court is it is the only evidence on the police officer’s side of the case.

Is the information in an arrest record public?

While most arrest record information is available to public and private entities, some records are restricted according to state legislation. One of the most significant aspects of any arrest record are the details of the police interrogation.