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Detailed Answer

When you notice errors in a law enforcement report (e.g., accident report, incident report) prepared by a New Hampshire police department or the New Hampshire State Police, follow these steps to request corrections:

1. Identify the agency and records custodian: Determine if the report was prepared by your local police department or the New Hampshire State Police. Locate the Records Custodian or Public Records Officer on the agency’s website under “Public Records.”
2. Gather key details: Include the report number, date of incident, names involved, and your relationship to the incident (e.g., driver, victim, owner). Attach a copy of the report highlighting the errors.
3. Draft a written request: Send a signed letter or email to the Records Custodian. State you are requesting to correct factual errors under New Hampshire’s Right-to-Know Law (RSA Chapter 91-A). Cite RSA 91-A:4 regarding record access — https://www.gencourt.state.nh.us/rsa/html/LVIII/91-A/91-A-4.htm, and RSA 91-A:5 on production timelines — https://www.gencourt.state.nh.us/rsa/html/LVIII/91-A/91-A-5.htm.
4. Provide supporting documentation: Include any evidence that supports your requested corrections (photos, witness statements, repair invoices, etc.).
5. Follow agency timelines: Under RSA 91-A:5, agencies must respond to public records requests “forthwith” or within a reasonable time. Allow 5–10 business days for a response.
6. Escalate if necessary: If the Records Custodian declines your request, ask for a written denial. You can:
   • File an internal appeal with the department head or Internal Affairs unit.
   • Request a review by the New Hampshire Attorney General’s Right-to-Know Unit — https://www.doj.nh.gov/consumer/right-to-know.
   • Pursue an appeal in Superior Court under RSA 91-A:7 — https://www.gencourt.state.nh.us/rsa/html/LVIII/91-A/91-A-7.htm.
7. Confirm corrections: Once the agency agrees, obtain and review the revised report. Keep copies for your records.

Disclaimer: This article provides general information and does not constitute legal advice. Consult an attorney to discuss your specific situation.

Helpful Hints

• Contact the Records Custodian as soon as you discover an error.
• Keep all communications in writing for documentation.
• Use certified mail or a delivery method with tracking for important requests.
• Be concise and factual; avoid emotional language.
• Follow up promptly if you have not received a timely response.
• Document all phone calls with dates, times, and names.