What are some reasons cops would refuse to give police report?

Question

I even got a contact from my city council member's consituent services office and I eventually was able to talk to a police detective and he called the records office and still could not explain why we could not get a record. They keep saying that "you are a suspect in the case" or "you were a suspect in the case" I don't understand this. Another time they told us "some cases the reports can be released and for others it cannot" ok what are some reasons?? What can we do about it? We absolutely positively NEED this report in 2 weeks and no time to hire a criminal lawyer.. (or do we?)

BTW this is in Glendale, California

Answer 1

If it's an on going case, the information may not be released.

Answer 2

You didn't bribe them?  I recommend donuts and unmarked bills.

Answer 3

They don't have to b/c it's an open case.

Answer 4

I'm sorry this is happening to you.  I don't think they could have any plausible basis for withholding the report at this point, considering how long ago it was.  

The reason they won't turn it over is likely either (1) ignorance of the law - they apparently don't think you have a right to the report, or (2) willful defiance of the law - they know it is illegal to refuse the report, but have decided to do so anyway.  

If you haven't yet, you will probably need to file a formal records request, but I don't think it is going to get you the documents within two weeks.

If I were you, I would contact an immigration attorney immediately.  The immigration attorney can help with getting the report, and assuming you can't get the report, might be able to try to get the interview rescheduled or do something for you on that end.  Good luck.

I would also keep going down there and demanding to talk to supervisors, etc.

You may also want to try to contact the DA that prosecuted the case and see if they have a copy of the relevant reports.  Likewise, there may be something in the court file.

Answer 5

IF this is a criminal case, and YOU are serving as your own attorney (in pro per), you have an Constitutional RIGHT to any and all evidence and reports involved in YOUR case.

Contact a lawyer or legal-services office IMMEDIATELY.  IF the case has been assigned to a judge, contact THEM.  IF you don't have that information in a timely manner, it is grounds for an appeal.

Answer 6

File the request under the "Freedom of Information Act".

Answer 7

Absolute laziness