Frequently Asked Questions

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1. How do I report a crime?

All crime reports should be directed to the law enforcement agency in the city or county where the crime occurred. The District Attorney's Office does not take crime reports.

2. How do I get a copy of a police report?

Victims of crime can obtain police reports from the law enforcement agency that created the report.

3. Who decides what charges to file, and how do they make that decision?

Depending on the seriousness of the charges, the District Attorney or deputy district attorneys evaluate cases submitted to their Office by law enforcement agencies. Prosecutors commonly collaborate on the evaluation of charges. They review the evidence in lights of current laws to determine what criminal charges can be filed and what charges would serve the goal of achieving justice.

4. What happens at the arraignment, preliminary hearing, and pre-trial court dates?

The arraignment is a hearing in court in which the District Attorney charges a defendant with a specific offenses. The defendant receives a copy of the charges (in a document called a "complaint") and is informed of their constitutional rights. The defendant enters a plea of guilty or not guilty at this hearing.

The preliminary hearing is a hearing in court where both the District Attorney and the defense can present evidence, and a judge decides if the evidence adequately supports requiring the defendant to stand trial. A preliminary hearing is not a trial and does not involve a jury.

A pre-trial conference provides the opportunity for the prosecution and the defense to discuss the status of a case with the judge. Pre-trial conferences can result in plea agreements or the setting of a trial date.

5. How can I find out where someone is incarcerated?

You can determine if someone is an inmate at the Humboldt County jail in three ways:

1. Use Vinelink;
2. Check jail reports at the Humboldt County Sheriff's Department by clicking HERE;
3.  Call the Humboldt County Correctional Facility at 707-441-5159.

6. I want to file a complaint about a police officer or sheriff's deputy, what do I do?

You should report the matter to the officer's employing agency. Law enforcement agencies are required by law to receive complaints. Investigate the matter and respond back to the complaining party.

7. What if I have a question that is not answered in your FAQs?

Call 707-445-7411 to speak with a receptionist. But please be aware that we cannot give legal advice on legal issues.