This article explains how to request an amendment to a police report in Texas. This is not legal advice.
Detailed Answer
If you believe a police report contains incorrect details, you can ask the law enforcement agency to correct it. Police reports are public records under Texas Government Code Chapter 552 and you have the right to review them. While Texas law does not set a specific “amendment” process for local police reports, you can follow these general steps:
- Obtain and review the report. Request a copy from the department’s Records Division. Cite Tex. Gov’t Code § 552.021.
- Identify inaccuracies. Note the specific errors (dates, names, descriptions) and gather supporting evidence (photos, witness statements, receipts).
- Write a formal amendment request. Address it to the department’s Public Information Officer or Records Custodian. Include:
- Your name and contact information.
- The report’s case number, date, and officer.
- A clear explanation of each error.
- Copies of documents that support the correct information.
- Submit your request. Send by certified mail or deliver it in person. Keep proof of delivery.
- Follow up. If the agency does not respond within 10 business days, send a reminder requesting a status update.
- Appeal denials. If the department refuses to correct the report, you can ask the Texas Attorney General to review the refusal under Tex. Gov’t Code § 552.221. File the request for decision within 45 days of denial.
- Correct criminal history records if needed. If the error appears in your criminal history maintained by DPS, you may ask for correction under Tex. Code Crim. Proc. art. 60.05.
Helpful Hints
- Keep copies of all correspondence and evidence.
- Use certified mail with return receipt.
- Be clear and concise in your description of errors.
- Attend any in-person meetings prepared with organized documents.
- Consult an attorney if the agency still refuses to amend the report.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.