Detailed Answer
If you notice errors in a Mississippi law enforcement report—such as incorrect dates, misspelled names or inaccurate incident details—you can request a correction. While Mississippi law does not provide a specific “report correction” statute, you can use the Public Records Act and agency procedures to pursue an amendment.
- Identify the correct agency and report. Determine which department responded (city police, county sheriff or state patrol) and ask for the report’s file number. This ensures you reference the exact document when you request a correction.
- Submit a written request to the Records Division. Under the Mississippi Public Records Act (Miss. Code Ann. § 25-61-1 et seq.), you have the right to inspect and obtain public records. While the Act does not mandate automatic amendments, you can include in your request a detailed description of each error and any supporting documents (e.g., driver’s license, witness statements).
- Follow up by phone or email. Most agencies list a Records Custodian or Public Information Officer on their website. After you send your letter or email, call them to confirm receipt and ask about their internal correction policy.
- Seek a supplemental report. Even if the original report remains unchanged, departments often add a “supplemental report” noting corrections. Ask the Records Division if they will add this addendum to your file.
- Escalate to Internal Affairs or Civil Service. If the Records Division does not respond or refuses your request, you may file a complaint under the department’s Internal Affairs procedure or, for state officers, with the Mississippi State Personnel Board (Miss. Code Ann. § 25-9-103: https://www.lexisnexis.com/hottopics/mscode/Document?statute=25-9-103).
- Consider a public records appeal. If your request under the Public Records Act is denied, you can file a petition in county circuit court to compel disclosure or amendment (Miss. Code Ann. § 25-61-17: https://www.lexisnexis.com/hottopics/mscode/Document?statute=25-61-17). Courts can order agencies to release records and potentially note corrections.
Disclaimer: This article provides general information about Mississippi procedures. It is not legal advice. Consult a qualified attorney for advice specific to your situation.
Helpful Hints
- Include copies, not originals. Send photocopies of IDs or supporting documents.
- Keep records of all correspondence and dates you contacted the agency.
- Polite persistence helps. Follow up every week until you receive a written response.
- Ask for agency policy in writing so you understand their timelines and appeal steps.
- If you hit a roadblock, contact your state representative or county supervisor for assistance.