Police
Public records are defined as any writing containing information relating to the conduct of the public's business.
These records are prepared, owned, used, or retained by any state or local agency regardless of physical form or characteristics.
Who Can Make a Public Records Request?
Any person can make a Public Records request. You can choose to provide your information or remain anonymous, however, the City will not be able to provide updates or seek clarification on anonymous CPRA requests. It will be the requester’s responsibility to check the portal for records that are posted publicly on the portal in response to their request.
What Types of Records Are Available?
It is the responsibility of SDPD to allow the public access to certain information obtained during the normal course of daily business. Certain records or portions of records may be subject to privacy laws or other exemptions and unavailable for viewing.
Government Code section 6254 specifies exemptions in order to balance an individual's right to privacy with the public's need for information. Items that will most likely be withheld or redacted from San Diego Police Department public records are:
What Records Can I Find Online?
Many records are available online and for immediate review, including:
How about Traffic Accident and Police Reports?
Police reports are not released to arrested individuals and/or suspects. These individuals may obtain reports through their legal representatives through the discovery and/or subpoena process.
Under Vehicle Code section 20012, anyone subject to civil liability gets a copy of the accident report, including: