Requesting an Amendment to a Police Report in Washington

Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Consult a licensed attorney for advice on your specific situation.

Detailed Answer

If you discover incorrect information in a Washington police report, state law provides a path to request a correction. Follow these steps to ensure your request is clear and legally grounded.

1. Identify the errors and collect supporting evidence
Carefully review the police report and mark each incorrect detail (dates, names, descriptions, incident narrative). Gather documents or other evidence—such as photos, medical records, witness statements—that clearly show the information is wrong.

2. Draft a written amendment request
Prepare a concise letter or email addressed to the records custodian at the law enforcement agency that created the report (e.g., city police department or county sheriff’s office). Include:
– Your full name and contact information
– Report number and date of the report
– A clear description of each error and the correct information
– Copies of your supporting documents
– A request for written confirmation of receipt and outcome

3. Cite the relevant statute
Under Washington’s Criminal Justice Training Commission rules, law enforcement agencies must correct or update criminal justice information when they determine it is inaccurate. See RCW 10.97.070 for details.

4. Follow up and appeal if needed
If you do not receive a response within 14 days, follow up by phone or in person. If the agency denies your request or fails to respond, you can invoke the Washington Public Records Act (RCW 42.56). Under RCW 42.56.580, you may seek judicial review of the agency’s decision.

5. Seek court intervention
If administrative appeals fail, file a petition in superior court asking a judge to order the agency to correct the report. Include your original request, agency communications, and supporting evidence. The court can compel the amendment and award related costs.

Helpful Hints

• Be precise: Identify page numbers, line items, or sections where errors appear.
• Keep records: Save copies of all correspondence and proof of delivery (certified mail or email confirmations).
• Stay polite and professional: A respectful tone can speed up responses.
• Use statutory references: Citing RCW 10.97.070 and RCW 42.56.580 shows you know your rights.
• Consider mediation: Some agencies offer dispute resolution before involving the courts.
• Consult an attorney: For complex or high-stakes cases, legal advice can improve outcomes.