Saint Paul Police Department records are official documents created during law enforcement activities. These records include incident reports, arrest logs, accident summaries, and investigation files. The department maintains strict protocols for public access while protecting privacy rights under Minnesota law. Records requests can be made in person, online, or by mail through the Records Unit at 367 Grove Street, Saint Paul, MN 55101. Most standard requests are processed within one business day, with fees starting at $0.25 per page for printed copies.
How to Request Police Reports and Arrest Records
To obtain Saint Paul Police Department records, start by visiting the Data Practices Center portal. Create a free account using your valid email address and upload a government-issued photo ID. Once logged in, complete the online request form with specific details like incident date, location, report number, and names of involved parties. The system verifies your identity and checks for privacy restrictions before processing. Standard requests take three to five business days. Urgent requests cost an extra $15 and are handled faster. You’ll receive an encrypted PDF via secure email or can pick up physical copies at the Records Unit.
For in-person requests, go to the first-floor Customer Service window at 367 Grove Street. The office is open Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., except on major holidays like New Year’s Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving, and Christmas. Bring a valid ID and be ready to pay $0.25 per page for documents up to 99 pages. Larger files cost actual production expenses. Payment options include cash, credit card, or municipal check. Staff will retrieve your records quickly—usually within one business day.
Online Police Report Filing System
Residents can file non-emergency police reports instantly using the department’s online portal. This service is perfect for minor accidents, lost property, vandalism, or theft under $500. Do not use this system if someone is injured, in danger, or if a crime is actively happening—call 911 instead. For non-urgent matters, dial 651-291-1111. The digital form asks for basic details: date, time, location, description of the incident, and witness information. After submission, you’ll get a confirmation number and email receipt. Once approved by an officer, you can download a free printable copy from your account dashboard. Photos or videos can be securely uploaded as evidence.
This system reduces wait times and eliminates the need for in-person visits. It’s available 24/7, so you can report incidents anytime. The report goes directly to patrol officers for review. If more information is needed, an officer may contact you by phone or email. Approved reports become part of the official record and can be used for insurance claims or legal purposes. No fees apply for online filings.
Records Unit Services and Operating Hours
The Saint Paul Police Department Records Unit serves as the central hub for all law enforcement documentation. Located at 367 Grove Street, it operates Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Staffed by trained clerical personnel, the unit handles thousands of requests each month. Services include retrieving incident logs, arrest records, accident reports, and body-worn camera footage (subject to legal review). The unit follows National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) security guidelines, using encrypted storage and multi-factor authentication to protect sensitive data.
All records are kept for at least ten years. Older files may be archived or lawfully disposed of after review. Inter-agency requests—such as subpoenas from prosecutors or court orders—are processed within 48 hours. The unit also supports internal investigations and audits. Authorized personnel can access the system 24/7, ensuring continuity for urgent law enforcement needs. Public visitors must follow strict identification and purpose-of-request protocols.
Saint Paul Police Department Service Statistics
The Saint Paul Police Department employs about 800 people, including 620 sworn officers. Each year, they respond to nearly 300,000 service calls—ranging from traffic stops to domestic disputes. They investigate approximately 13,000 Part I crimes annually, such as burglary, robbery, aggravated assault, and homicide. The force operates from five precincts across the city and uses a computer-aided dispatch (CAD) system that tracks response times. On average, officers arrive at emergency scenes in four minutes.
The department maintains a fleet of 150 patrol vehicles equipped with GPS, radios, and emergency lighting. Officers receive ongoing training in de-escalation, cultural competency, and use-of-force protocols. Community engagement is a priority: programs like Neighborhood Watch, youth mentoring, and Safe Streets involve over 5,000 residents yearly. These initiatives aim to build trust, reduce crime, and promote neighborhood safety through collaboration.
Crime Data and Public Transparency
Saint Paul crime statistics are now published through the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension (BCA) Crime Data Explorer. Since 2021, the state has used the National Incident-Based Reporting System (NIBRS), which captures detailed data on each offense—including victim demographics, weapon types, and exact locations. This replaces the older Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) system, offering more accurate and transparent insights.
Users can filter data by year, crime type, or neighborhood. Monthly updates appear on the first Thursday of the following month, showing trends like property crime spikes downtown or traffic violations along I-35W. The BCA portal provides downloadable CSV files for researchers, journalists, and community groups. Saint Paul’s data is publicly accessible and regularly used by city planners, schools, and advocacy organizations to inform safety strategies.
Arrest Records and Mugshot Access
The Saint Paul Police Department maintains a searchable database of arrest records and mugshots. These are available for background checks, employment screening, or personal research. Users can search by name, booking number, or arrest date. Results include PDF documents with charge descriptions, case numbers, custody status, and high-resolution mugshots updated within 24 hours of booking.
Certain records are redacted to protect privacy, especially in ongoing investigations or cases involving juveniles. Minnesota law restricts access to sealed or expunged records. Bulk data requests—such as those from researchers or media outlets—require a formal Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) application. The department processes these within ten business days. All data is hosted on secure servers with audit trails to track access.
South St. Paul and West St. Paul Record Services
Nearby cities also provide public access to police records. South St. Paul’s Records Division, located at 125 3rd Avenue North, handles requests for incident reports, accident summaries, and citations. The office is open Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Most records are free; certified copies cost $5 per page. Requests are typically fulfilled within five business days. Contact them at 651-554-3300 or use their online “Request for Police Data Form” for faster processing.
West St. Paul Police Department, at 1616 Humboldt Avenue, offers similar services. Their front desk is open 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. Call 651-552-4100 for non-emergency inquiries. They provide crime maps, tip submissions, and record requests through their public portal. Both departments follow Minnesota’s Data Practices Act, ensuring transparency while safeguarding sensitive information.
Fees, Payment Methods, and Processing Times
Saint Paul Police Department charges $0.25 per page for printed records up to 99 pages. Larger files are billed at actual production cost, covering paper, toner, and binding. Payments can be made in cash, by credit card, or with a municipal check. Digital copies sent via secure email are included at no extra charge. Standard processing takes one business day for in-person requests and three to five days for online submissions.
Urgent requests—such as those needed for court or legal proceedings—can be expedited for a $15 surcharge. These are typically completed within 24 hours. Certified copies, required for official use like background checks, cost $5 per page. All fees are disclosed upfront, and receipts are provided. Fee waivers may be available for low-income individuals or nonprofit organizations upon request.
Privacy, Legal Restrictions, and Redactions
Not all police records are fully public. Minnesota law protects certain information, including ongoing investigations, juvenile records, medical details, and personally identifiable information of victims or witnesses. The Records Unit reviews each request to apply appropriate redactions before release. Sealed or expunged records are not accessible to the public.
Body-worn camera footage, 911 calls, and internal affairs files may be withheld if disclosure would interfere with an investigation or violate privacy rights. Requesters can appeal denials through the Minnesota Department of Administration. The Saint Paul Police Department follows strict compliance with the Minnesota Government Data Practices Act (MGDPA), ensuring lawful and ethical data handling.
Contact Information and Office Location
For in-person visits, go to the Records Unit at 367 Grove Street, Saint Paul, MN 55101. The Customer Service window is on the first floor, open Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., excluding holidays. Call 651-266-7940 during business hours for assistance. For online services, visit the Data Practices Center portal or the online reporting system. Emergency situations should always be reported to 911.
Official website: https://www.stpaul.gov/departments/police Phone: 651-266-7940 Visiting hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m. Address: 367 Grove Street, Saint Paul, MN 55101
Related Search Terms and Additional Resources
People searching for Saint Paul Police Department records often look for related services such as background checks, court filings, and vital statistics. While the department provides arrest and incident data, other records like birth certificates or marriage licenses are managed by Ramsey County or the Minnesota Department of Health. For statewide criminal history checks, use the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension’s online portal. Always verify which agency holds the specific record you need to avoid delays.
- Minnesota BCA Criminal History Search
- Ramsey County Court Records
- Minnesota Public Death Index
- Statewide Arrest Record Lookup
- Neighborhood Crime Maps
Frequently Asked Questions
Many residents have questions about accessing police records in Saint Paul. Below are common inquiries with clear, direct answers based on current policies and procedures. These responses reflect the latest information from official sources and are designed to help users navigate the process efficiently and legally.
Can I get a police report if I wasn’t involved in the incident?
Yes, in most cases. Minnesota law allows any person to request public police reports, even if they were not directly involved. However, the Records Unit may redact sensitive details like witness names, victim addresses, or medical information to protect privacy. If the report involves an ongoing investigation, parts may be withheld until the case is closed. You’ll need to provide a valid ID and complete the request form. There’s no requirement to prove involvement unless the record is sealed or restricted by court order.
How long does it take to receive records by mail?
Mail requests typically take five to seven business days from receipt to delivery. The Records Unit processes incoming mail on weekdays and sends documents via standard U.S. Postal Service. Include a self-addressed stamped envelope (SASE) with sufficient postage for the number of pages requested. For faster service, use the online portal or visit in person. Digital copies are emailed within three to five days, while physical copies sent by mail may take longer depending on postal delivery times.
Are mugshots public record in Saint Paul?
Yes, mugshots are considered public record once someone is booked into custody. They are posted online within 24 hours and remain accessible unless the case is dismissed, expunged, or sealed by a judge. The department does not remove mugshots based on acquittal alone—Minnesota law permits their release as part of the arrest record. However, juvenile mugshots are never published. Requests for bulk mugshot data require a formal FOIA application and may incur additional fees.
Can I request records for someone who is deceased?
Yes, but you must provide proof of death and your relationship to the individual. Acceptable documents include a death certificate, obituary, or court-appointed executor letter. The Records Unit will verify your authority before releasing any information. Arrest records, incident reports, and accident summaries involving deceased persons are generally available unless restricted by privacy laws. Note that medical examiner reports fall under a different agency and require a separate request to Ramsey County.
What if my request is denied?
If your request is denied, you’ll receive a written explanation citing the specific legal exemption used—such as an ongoing investigation or privacy protection. You have the right to appeal the decision to the Minnesota Department of Administration within 30 days. Include your original request, denial letter, and any supporting documents. The appeal process is free and does not require a lawyer. The state will review the case and issue a binding determination within 60 days.
Do I need a lawyer to request police records?
No, you do not need a lawyer. Any person can submit a request using the online portal, in-person form, or mail. The process is designed for public use and does not require legal representation. However, if your request involves complex legal issues—such as sealed records or litigation—consulting an attorney may be helpful. The Records Unit cannot provide legal advice but will explain procedural steps and fee structures upon request.
Are online police reports legally valid?
Yes, online police reports filed through the Saint Paul system are official documents. Once approved by an officer, they carry the same legal weight as those filed in person. You can use them for insurance claims, court proceedings, or personal documentation. The report includes a confirmation number, timestamp, and officer signature. Keep a digital or printed copy for your records. If additional investigation is needed, an officer may contact you for more details.