The Suffolk Police Department receives many calls each day requesting various services. The following questions are those that are most frequently asked.
Calling the Police
When should I use 911?
You should use 911 when there is an emergency health or criminal situation.
If you call 911 and your call is of a non-emergency nature, you may delay the
department's ability to respond to a life-threatening emergency in a timely
manner.
How long does it take an officer to respond when I call the police?
All calls are received in the Communications Center. Communications Officers
answer calls and dispatch them to police officers based on the availability
of an officer and the priority level of the call.
How do I report a crime?
For non-emergencies, call 923-2350 to report the crime to the communications
center. In some instances, a desk officer will be able to complete the report
over the telephone. If it is necessary for an officer to appear in person, the
communications center will dispatch the next available police officer to the
scene.
How can I get a police officer to speak at a meeting?
Individuals must complete the Request for Suffolk Police Department Speaker
(
8kb) form and submit it to the Community Services Section. The Department makes every attempt to honor each request.
To increase the likelihood of police participation, please submit your request
at least three weeks prior to the event date.
Police Services
How do I get a copy of a police incident report?
Individuals may obtain a copy of a police incident report from the Central Records
Unit of the Police Department. Individuals may request a copy by mail or by
coming to the Central Records Office at police headquarters. The fee for the
report is $6.00; however the listed victims in the report may obtain a copy
at no charge.
How I get a copy of a police accident report?
Individuals may obtain a copy of a police accident report from the Central Records
Unit of the Police Department. The fee for this report is $5.00.
How can I get a copy of my criminal history record (also known as rap sheet, background check or criminal arrest record)?
Individuals may obtain a copy of their local criminal history record from the Central Records Unit of the Police Department. Proof of identification is required
in the form of a state issued picture ID and there is a 5.00 charge for this
service. The Local Background Check form may be completed by the Central Records
Unit or presented at the time the request is made. Please note this report will
only list offenses committed within the City of Suffolk. The Department of Virginia
State Police issues statewide criminal history records for a $15.00 charge.
How do I get a concealed weapon permit?
Individuals must obtain a concealed weapon permit application from Circuit Court.
Applicants are required to attend a gun safety class and present the class certificate
of completion and the application to the Central Records Unit. Applicants
with prior military experience are not required to take the gun safety class
if they have a certified copy of their DD Form 214. Upon receipt of the
required documentation, the Central Records Unit will fingerprint the applicant
and forward the fingerprint card to the Circuit Court. The permit cost $33.00
and must be paid at the Circuit Court.
How can I get a copy of my fingerprints?
Many employers require prospective employees provide a copy of their fingerprints
prior to completing the hiring process. The agency will provide a fingerprint
card for the employee to present to the Central Records Unit. This card and
a picture ID must be presented prior to receiving the prints. There is a $5.00
charge for this service.
Other Services
How can I get a temporary restraining order?
A temporary restraining order must be obtained from the Magistrate's Office
located at 2402 Godwin Boulevard. For additional information, dial 923-3840.
How can I get a car out of impound?
To get a car out of impound, the owner must contact the police officer that
had the car towed.
Where do I pay parking tickets?
All parking tickets issued within the City of Suffolk are paid at the City Treasurer's
Office located at 441 Market Street. For additional information, please call
923-3600.
Neighborhood Safety
How do I find out about crimes in my neighborhood?
All neighborhoods with organized community leagues/groups have a designated
police officer that serves as a liaison for community services. Individuals
may contact their assigned police officer for information about crimes that
occur in their neighborhood. To learn the name of your assigned police officer,
or to receive assistance with organizing a civic league, contact the Community
Services Section at 923-2357.
What can the Police do about speeders in my neighborhood?
The Suffolk Police Department facilitates a speed awareness program within the
Community Services Section. In this program, an officer meets with the citizens
of the neighborhood to hear their concerns. The officer will then utilize various
options such as increased police presence of patrol officers and mainly, the
use of equipment such as a speed awareness trailer. This equipment displays
the speed of motorist when vehicles pass and also records data that can be later
compiled in a report.
