Police officers create reports for potentially illegal incidents.
A police report is a document generated by local authorities. The report documents illegal or potentially illegal incidents. The police personnel gather witness testimony, factual data, information on parties involved and various other details, according to Colorado State University. To file a police report in Chicago, you must determine the type of report, contact the police or visit the closest police station. In addition, some reports require police presence, while you can file other reports after the incident occurs.
Instructions
1. Determine the type of report you will file. The Chicago Police Department provides an online tool for filing specific reports. For example, you can file reports about drug trafficking, consumer fraud or potholes online. However, some reports---violence, burglaries or automobile accidents, for example---require the presence of an officer.
2. Call the police to the scene of the incident. In some situations---automobile accidents, for example---you are required to contact the authorities. Contact the Chicago Police Department by dialing 311 (911 in an emergency) or calling 312-746-6000 and request the presence of an officer and the completion of a police report. Gather as much detail as possible, including the approximate time of the incident, parties involved, affected items and injuries. Make sure you note the police report number for future reference.
3. Visit your local Chicago police station. You can file a report at your local police station, especially if a substantial amount of time has passed. Contact the Chicago Police Department at 312-746-6000 and request information about the nearest location. Gather relevant information and complete the required paperwork at the station. Take note of the report number for future reference.
4. Request a copy of the report. You may need your report should you appear in court or for general record keeping. You can obtain a copy of a traffic report online using the CLEARpath system. The department charges $6.00 for each report as of May 2010. Alternatively, you can visit the Records Division of the Chicago Police Department Headquarters, according to the CLEARpath website. (See Resources for a link to the CLEARpath site).
Records Division of the Chicago Police Department
3510 S. Michigan Ave.
Chicago, IL 60653
Tags: Chicago Police, Chicago Police Department, Police Department, police report, police station, 312-746-6000 request
