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

Correcting Errors in a Police Report Under Wyoming Law

Detailed Answer

1. Identify the Inaccuracies

Begin by obtaining a copy of the police report from the law enforcement agency’s records office. Carefully review each entry and highlight the specific errors, such as wrong dates, misspelled names, incorrect descriptions or factual mistakes. Record the report number, date of incident and officer name for reference.

2. Gather Supporting Evidence

Collect documents or other proof that show the report contains incorrect details. This may include photographs, videos, witness statements, medical records or other official records. Strong evidence helps persuade the agency to amend the report.

3. Submit a Written Request

Under the Wyoming Public Records Act, you may request correction of inaccurate public records. Although the Act (Wyo. Stat. § 16-4-203) primarily governs inspection, many law enforcement agencies adopt internal policies allowing amendments to factual errors.

• Address your letter to the agency’s records custodian or police chief.
• Include your full name, contact information and report number.
• List each inaccuracy clearly and provide page or line references.
• Attach copies of supporting evidence.
• Request a specific correction and ask for a written response within 30 days.

You can cite Wyo. Stat. § 31-1-103 for the definition of an official record: Wyo. Stat. § 31-1-103.

4. Follow Up and Appeal

If you do not receive a response or if the agency denies your request, send a follow-up letter referencing your initial request. If the agency still refuses, you may pursue judicial review. File an action in district court seeking a writ of mandamus compelling correction. While Wyoming law does not explicitly set out an amendment procedure for law enforcement reports, courts have recognized mandamus as a remedy for compelling public agencies to perform required duties under the Public Records Act (see Wyo. Stat. § 16-4-203).

Helpful Hints

• Keep copies of every communication and certified-mail receipts.
• Be concise and factual—avoid emotional language.
• Use formatting (bullet points or tables) to clarify each error.
• Follow the agency’s published record-request policy and fee schedule.
• If the process becomes complex, consult an attorney experienced in public records or civil rights law.