Disclaimer: This article provides general information under Nevada law and does not constitute legal advice.
Detailed Answer
Under Nevada law, police reports qualify as public records. You can request a review and correction when you identify incorrect details. While Nevada Revised Statutes (NRS) does not include a formal amendment procedure for police reports, you can follow these steps:
- Obtain and review the report. Request a certified copy from the law enforcement agency’s records division. Use NRS 239.010 for public-record requests: NRS 239.010.
- Identify inaccuracies. Highlight errors in names, dates, times, events or witness statements. Be specific about each incorrect detail.
- Gather supporting evidence. Collect documents, photos, videos, or sworn affidavits that clearly show the correct facts.
- Submit a written correction request. Address it to the agency’s records supervisor or internal affairs division. Include:
- Report number and date.
- Details you believe are incorrect.
- Copies of supporting evidence.
- Your contact information.
- Follow up in writing. If you do not receive a response within 30 days, send a follow-up letter or email, referencing your initial request.
- Escalate if necessary. If the agency refuses or ignores your request, you may:
- File a complaint with the agency’s civilian oversight board or internal affairs unit.
- Contact the Nevada Attorney General’s Open Government Ombudsman.
- Seek a writ of mandamus in district court under NRS 34.160 (NRS 34.160), which can compel the agency to act.
- Consider hiring an attorney. An attorney experienced in public-records or administrative law can guide you through appeals or court actions.
Helpful Hints
- Keep copies of all correspondence and proof of delivery.
- Use certified mail or a delivery service with tracking.
- Document phone calls: note date, time, names and summaries.
- Review agency policies online; some departments post correction procedures on their websites.
- Act promptly: errors that go unchallenged may be harder to correct later.
- Ask for written confirmation of any correction made to the report.