Detailed Answer
Under Minnesota law, a police report qualifies as government data. You can request its amendment when you believe it contains inaccurate or incomplete information. The procedure rests on the Minnesota Government Data Practices Act (Minn. Stat. § 13.04).
To support your request, submit a written notice to the law enforcement agency that includes:
- A clear identification of the report by date, report number or involved parties.
- A precise description of each inaccuracy or omission.
- Your proposed correction or addition.
- Copies of all supporting documents.
Commonly accepted evidence or documentation includes:
- Video and Audio Recordings: Body-worn camera footage, dashcam video or 911 call recordings that show the timing, location or actions more accurately than the narrative.
- Photographs and Diagrams: Scene photos, aerial images or sketches that verify positioning or damage.
- Official Records: Medical records, repair invoices, accident reconstruction reports or tow-truck logs that establish injuries, timelines or vehicle movements.
- Witness Statements: Sworn affidavits or signed written statements from eyewitnesses who observed the incident.
- Expert Analyses: Forensic reports, private investigator summaries or timestamped GPS data.
The agency must respond within ten business days. If it agrees, it may correct the original report or file a supplement. If it refuses, it must attach your request and its denial to the file and advise you of appeal rights under Minn. Stat. § 13.08. You can then seek review by the agency head or petition district court.
Disclaimer: This article provides general information under Minnesota law and does not constitute legal advice. Consult a qualified attorney for guidance on your specific situation.
Helpful Hints
- Label each piece of evidence clearly and reference it in your written request.
- Keep copies of all materials and send your request by certified mail.
- Note and calendar all deadlines, including the 10-day agency response period.
- Follow up in writing if you do not receive a timely response.
- If the agency denies your request, consider consulting an attorney about filing a contested-case appeal under Minn. Stat. § 13.08.