FastCounsel

Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.

Detailed Answer

Under Pennsylvania law, anyone who identifies incorrect details in a police report can ask the law enforcement agency to amend that report. Although Pennsylvania’s Right-to-Know Law (65 P.S. § 67.503(a)(1)) governs access to public records, there is no separate statewide statute mandating how police must correct errors. Instead, most local police departments and the Pennsylvania State Police follow internal policies that allow you to request corrections through their records or internal affairs divisions.

Follow these steps:

1. Obtain a Certified Copy of the Report. Under the Right-to-Know Law, you may request a copy of the report in writing from the agency’s open-records officer. See 65 P.S. § 67.503(a)(1): legis.state.pa.us. If you’re a victim or charged party, you may qualify for reduced or waived fees.
2. Identify the Errors. Mark or note each inaccuracy with the report title, case number, date, and officer name. Clear identification helps the agency locate and assess the issue quickly.
3. Draft a Written Request for Amendment. Address your letter to the Records Custodian or Internal Affairs Unit. Include:
   • Your name, contact information, and relationship to the case.
   • Report title, case number, and date.
   • Precisely what information is incorrect, and the correct information.
   • Any supporting documentation (photos, witness statements, receipts).

   Send via certified mail or hand-deliver and obtain a receipt.

4. Follow Agency Timelines. While the Right-to-Know Law sets a 30-day response deadline for records requests, correction requests may follow internal policies. Ask the agency for its correction-procedure timeline when you submit your letter.
5. Escalate if Necessary. If the agency denies or ignores your request:
   • File an internal appeal with the agency’s professional standards or civilian complaint board.
   • Contact the Pennsylvania Office of Open Records to explore whether the denial implicates your access rights: openrecords.pa.gov/Appeals.
   • Consider lodging a complaint with the district attorney’s office or the Pennsylvania State Police Bureau of Integrity and Professional Standards.
6. Maintain Detailed Records. Keep copies of all correspondence, evidence, and notes on phone calls or in-person meetings. These records will be essential if you escalate your request or consult an attorney.

Helpful Hints

• Obtain both paper and electronic certified copies of the report.
• Be concise but thorough when describing each inaccuracy.
• Attach clear, legible supporting documents (photo scans, affidavits).
• Use certified mail or hand-delivery with a signature requirement.
• Monitor deadlines: Right-to-Know Law gives 30 days for some responses; internal policies vary.
• If you hit a roadblock, consult a lawyer experienced in civil rights or police-practice matters.