FAQ module icon

Frequently Asked Questions

If I request a qualifying record, will I get every part of the record, in its entirety?

California Penal Code section 832.7(b) mandates the redaction of the following information:

(A) To remove personal data or information, such as a home address, telephone number, or identities of family members, other than the names and work-related information of peace and custodial officers.

(B) To preserve the anonymity of complainants and witnesses.

(C) To protect confidential medical, financial, or other information of which disclosure is specifically prohibited by federal law or would cause an unwarranted invasion of personal privacy that clearly outweighs the strong public interest in records about misconduct and serious use of force by peace officers and custodial officers.

(D) Where there is a specific, articulable, and particularized reason to believe that disclosure of the record would pose a significant danger to the physical safety of the peace officer, custodial officer, or another person.

Additionally, if an investigation or incident involves multiple officers, information about allegations of misconduct by, or the analysis or disposition of an investigation of, an officer must be redacted unless it relates to a sustained finding against that officer.

The record(s) you receive from the Sheriff’s Office will be redacted, pursuant to the Penal Code. It is important to note that all parts of the record must be reviewed and redacted prior to disclosure including paper documents, photographs, and audio and video files. The Sheriff’s Office does not presently maintain these records with the redactions mandated by the new law.

Show All Answers

1. What is California Senate Bill 1421 (SB-1421)?
2. What categories of records must be made public under SB-1421?
3. What does "sustained finding" mean?
4. If I request a qualifying record, will I get every part of the record, in its entirety?
5. Aside from the mandated information is there anything else that the Department can choose to redact?
6. Can the Department withhold a record that falls into one of the disclosure categories?
7. How long will it take to get my requested record(s)?
8. How will I get my redacted records?
9. What is Senate Bill 978?
10. What is Assembly Bill 481?
11. Where are the audio/video files associated with the released SB 1421/ AB 748 records?
12. How do I request a record?
13. Are there costs associated with obtaining a record held by the Sheriff's Office?