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5 Critical Steps To Access Spokane Police Reports And Public Records (Updated 2025)

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Navigating the process of obtaining police reports in Spokane, Washington, has become more streamlined, but it still requires understanding the correct procedures and platforms. As of late 2025, the Spokane Police Department (SPD) and Spokane County have implemented new online tools and revised public records policies to increase transparency and ease of access for citizens, attorneys, and media. Whether you are seeking a routine incident report, a traffic collision record, or general crime statistics, knowing the specific portal and agency is the key to a fast and successful request.

This comprehensive guide provides the most current, step-by-step instructions for securing various types of law enforcement records, ensuring you comply with the Washington State Public Records Act (RCW 42.56.070(1)) and can utilize the city’s newest data resources, including the recently launched Public Data Dashboard.

The Essential Guide to Spokane Police Records Requests

Accessing official police records in Spokane, WA, is governed by the state’s commitment to public transparency. The process differs slightly depending on whether the incident occurred within the City of Spokane limits or in the broader Spokane County or Spokane Valley area. Always begin by identifying the jurisdiction where the incident took place.

Step 1: Determine the Jurisdiction and Request Method

The first and most crucial step is knowing which law enforcement agency has custody of the record. The City of Spokane Police Department (SPD) handles incidents within city limits, while the Spokane County Sheriff’s Office (SCSO) and the Spokane Valley Police Department (SVPD, which is contracted through the SCSO) handle other areas.

  • For City of Spokane Police Reports: Use the City of Spokane’s dedicated online Public Records portal, powered by GovQA. This is the primary and fastest method for requesting general incident reports, arrest records, and other SPD documents.
  • For Spokane County or Spokane Valley Police Reports: Direct your request to the Spokane County Public Records Office. This office manages requests for the Spokane County Sheriff’s Office and the Spokane Valley Police Department. You can typically contact them by phone or through the County’s official records request system.

Step 2: Utilize the Spokane Public Records Portal (GovQA)

The City of Spokane’s online portal is designed to manage the high volume of public records requests efficiently. When using the GovQA system for SPD records, be prepared to provide specific details to expedite the search process. The SPD’s Public Record Requests policy was revised in May 2025, emphasizing the use of this streamlined digital platform.

  • What to Include: To avoid delays, your request must include enough identifying information. This typically means the full name of at least one party involved, the date of the incident, the exact location or address, and the Police Report Number (or Case Number), if known.
  • Alternative Submission Methods: If the online portal is inaccessible, you can still submit a request via mail, fax, or email to the SPD Records office. The physical address is Records Department PSB-1, 1116 W Broadway Ave, Spokane, WA 99260-0001.

Step 3: Special Procedure for Collision Reports

If you need a copy of a traffic accident or collision report, the process is handled separately from general incident reports. These records are managed by the Washington State Patrol (WSP) and are accessible through a specific system.

  • WRECR System: Collision reports are requested via the Washington State Patrol Requests for Electronic Collision Records (WRECR) system. This online platform allows you to search for and obtain electronic copies of the report.
  • Information Needed: You will typically need the date of the collision, the location (e.g., intersection), and the name of at least one driver involved.

Understanding Response Times and Exemptions

Under the Public Records Act, the agency has five business days to respond to your request. The response will either provide the record, ask for clarification, or provide a reasonable estimate of when the records will be available, especially if the request is complex or involves a large volume of documents. It is important to note that not all information in a police report is releasable to the public.

The SPD Records office must review all requested documents and redact (black out) any information that is legally exempt from disclosure. Common exemptions include:

  • Personal Identifying Information: Social Security numbers, dates of birth, and sensitive financial details.
  • Witness/Victim Information: Details that could endanger a witness or victim.
  • Ongoing Investigations: Information that could impede an active law enforcement investigation or prosecution.
  • Juvenile Records: Records pertaining to minors are heavily restricted.

Understanding these potential exemptions will manage your expectations regarding the final, released document.

Step 4: Accessing Real-Time Crime Data and Statistics

For those interested in broader public safety trends, crime statistics, or near real-time incident data—rather than a specific police report—the City and County offer powerful online resources that have been significantly updated in 2025.

  • New SPD Public Data Dashboard: Launched in December 2025, the Spokane Police Department Public Dashboard provides a transparent, near real-time view of police activity, including calls for service, crime data, and other police metrics. This is a valuable tool for researchers, media, and community members seeking a high-level overview.
  • Regional Crime Map: Both the City and County utilize the LexisNexis® Community Crime Map. This platform allows you to search for events reported to local law enforcement agencies by location, giving you a visual representation of crime activity in specific neighborhoods or areas of Spokane County.
  • Monthly Crime Reports: Spokane County also publishes monthly reports detailing crime statistics, offering a deeper dive into trends and data.

These resources are excellent alternatives when you need general information on a neighborhood’s safety profile, such as tracking recent incidents like the recent warrant surge arrests or standoffs that were covered in the news.

Step 5: Reporting New Incidents and Non-Emergencies

If your intention is to file a new report or follow up on a non-emergency situation, you should not use the Public Records Request system. For these matters, the Spokane Police Department has a dedicated non-emergency line.

  • Crime Check: For reporting non-emergencies, such as minor theft, vandalism, or suspicious activity that is not an immediate threat, call Crime Check at 509.456.2233. This is the correct point of contact to initiate a new police report that will later become a public record.
  • Emergency Situations: Always dial 9-1-1 for emergencies requiring an immediate law enforcement, fire, or medical response.

By following these five steps and utilizing the correct online portals like GovQA and the new Public Data Dashboard, you can efficiently and legally obtain the specific Spokane Police Reports and public safety information you need.

5 Critical Steps to Access Spokane Police Reports and Public Records (Updated 2025)
police reports spokane wa
police reports spokane wa

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