Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.
Detailed Answer
Under Connecticut law, you can request corrections to a police report or incident record by following these steps:
1. Identify the Error
Review the report carefully. Note any inaccuracies in personal data, descriptions, statements, or incident dates.
2. Contact the Officer or Agency Directly
Locate the department’s Records or Public Information Office contact details on the police department’s official website. Call or email to learn the process for correcting records. Many agencies assign a Records Supervisor or Freedom of Information (“FOI”) Officer to handle these requests.
3. Submit a Written Request
Put your correction request in writing. Include:
- Your name and contact information
- Report number and incident date
- Exact text or section you want corrected
- Supporting documentation or evidence
Send this letter via certified mail or, if allowed, via email to ensure you have proof of delivery.
4. File a FOI Request to Review the Report
If the agency doesn’t provide the report or denies correction, file a Freedom of Information request under Conn. Gen. Stat. § 1-210. This lets you inspect the record and formally request amendment. See Conn. Gen. Stat. § 1-210 and § 1-212.
5. Appeal a Denial
If the department denies your correction request, you can appeal to the FOI Commission within 60 days per Conn. Gen. Stat. § 1-206. The Commission can order the agency to amend or annotate the record.
6. Consider an Internal Affairs or Civil Complaint
If the error involves misconduct or significant harm, you may file a complaint with the agency’s Internal Affairs Division. You can also consult an attorney to explore a civil claim for defamation or negligence if the error caused damages.
7. Keep Records and Follow Up
Maintain copies of all correspondence. Follow up in writing if you don’t get a response within the agency’s published FOI timeline, usually four business days.
Helpful Hints
- Check the police department website for FOI and records request forms.
- Be concise and specific when describing the error.
- Provide clear, legible copies of supporting documents.
- Use certified mail or request read receipts for all written requests.
- If you hit a roadblock, seek guidance from the Connecticut FOI Commission (portal.ct.gov/FOI).
- Consider consulting an attorney if your request remains unresolved.