How to Request Police Use of Force Records

Use of force reports are among the most important accountability documents in law enforcement. These records detail when and how officers use physical force, deploy weapons, or are involved in shootings. Here's how to get them.

What Are Use of Force Records?

Use of force records typically include:

Incident reports documenting each use of force

Officer statements and witness accounts

Investigation summaries and findings

Disciplinary actions taken

Statistical data on force deployment

Your Legal Right

Every state has public records laws that cover use of force reports. At the federal level, FOIA (5 U.S.C. § 552) governs requests to federal law enforcement agencies like the FBI, DEA, and U.S. Marshals.

Sample Request Language

I am requesting all use of force reports, including officer-involved shootings, physical force incidents, and conducted energy device (Taser) deployments, for the period of [START DATE] to [END DATE]. Please include incident reports, investigation summaries, and any disciplinary actions taken.

How to Handle Common Pushback

"This is a personnel record" — In most states, disciplinary actions resulting from sustained use of force complaints are public records. The agency cannot use a blanket personnel exemption.

"We don't track this" — If the agency claims it doesn't maintain use of force records, note that DOJ consent decrees and most state laws now require tracking. Request the policy that governs use of force reporting.

"Too broad" — Narrow your date range or focus on a specific type of force (e.g., only Taser deployments). But don't let the agency narrow your request for you.

Pro Tips

Request the agency's use of force policy alongside the reports — this gives you the framework to evaluate whether procedures were followed

Ask for data in electronic/spreadsheet format if available

If denied, the appeal is often where these records get released

File your use of force records request →